Art Quote by Vladimir Nabokov
““Although I am capable, through long dabbling in blue magic, of imitating any prose in the world (but singularly enough not verse—I am a miserable rhymester), I do not consider myself a true artist, save in one matter: I can do what only a true artist can do—pounce upon the forgotten butterfly of revelation, wean myself abruptly from the habit of things, see the web of the world, and the warp and the weft of that web.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Ada, or Ardor; 1969
The author claims he can mimic prose but not poetry, yet believes his artistic skill lies in revealing hidden truths.
In simple terms: He sees his talent as uncovering deeper meanings, not just copying style.
Seek insight beyond surface details.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- writing
- teaching
- critical reading
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you uncover hidden patterns?
- What reveals true insight?
Artistic insight may be limited by personal bias.