NABOKOV, Vladimir.

Vladimir Nabokov Autograph Letter Signed.

Rare Autograph letter signed by Vladimir Nabokov to New York Times Book Review editor Harvey Breit

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Autograph letter signed by the author of Lolita to New York Times Book Review editor Harvey Breit. One page, folded, the autograph letter reads in full, "Telluride Colorado 20. VII. 1951 Dear Mr. Breit, a copy of your article was sent to me by a friend to this wild and wonderful place where I am collecting butterflies. Your piece is delightful, could not be better. Yours cordially V. Nabokov." The recipient, Harvey Breit, was an American poet, playwright, and journalist, best known for his work as an editor and interviewer for The New York Times Book Review from 1943 to 1957. He was recognized for his insightful interviews with prominent literary figures, including William Faulkner and Dylan Thomas, and for his adaptations of novels for the stage, such as Budd Schulberg's The Disenchanted and R. K. Narayan's The Guide. In 1951, Breit conducted an interview with Vladimir Nabokov for The New York Times Book Review, providing American readers with a deeper understanding of Nabokov's literary philosophy. This interview was significant in shaping Nabokov's reception in the United States during a pivotal period of cultural transition. Taking place shortly after the U.S. publication of The Stories of Vladimir Nabokov, the interview allowed Nabokov to articulate his artistic principles to a broader American audience. In the exchange, Nabokov expressed strong opposition to the politicization of literature, criticizing writers who, in his view, compromised artistic quality in favor of social or ideological commentary. He dismissed such writing as part of a "social-comment racket," reinforcing his belief that literature should be appreciated for its aesthetic and imaginative qualities rather than its political message. The interview also reflected Nabokov’s desire to distance himself from nationalist or communal labels, advocating instead for a literature that transcended identity politics. Breit's thoughtful questions provided a platform for Nabokov to clarify these views, helping to shape his American literary identity during a pivotal period of cultural transition. The present letter likely refers to this very interview and the subsequently published article and also references Nabokov's unique passion for lepidopterology (the study of butterflies), a field to which he made many significant contributions. In very good condition with folds, creasing, and closed tears.

Russian-American novelist, poet, and literary critic Vladimir Nabokov remains widely celebrated for his linguistic brilliance, intricate narrative structures, and philosophical depth. Born in 1899 in St. Petersburg, Russia, Nabokov was educated in Europe and eventually settled in the United States, where he taught literature at institutions such as Cornell University. He wrote both in Russian and English, producing acclaimed works in both languages. His most famous novel, Lolita (1955), remains one of the most controversial and critically discussed books of the 20th century, known for its provocative subject matter and masterful prose. Nabokov’s writing often explored themes of memory, exile, and the interplay between reality and illusion. In addition to his fiction, he was also a passionate lepidopterist and translated several major works into English including many of his own.