Meaning: This quote by Vladimir Nabokov, a renowned novelist, expresses his disdain for careless and superficial reviewers and readers who fail to engage deeply with the material they encounter. Nabokov was known for his meticulous attention to detail and his insistence on the rigorous exploration of language, form, and meaning in his works. This quote reflects his frustration with individuals who approach literature without the requisite dedication and discernment.

In this quote, Nabokov uses the term "hack reviewers" to refer to critics and commentators who lack genuine insight and understanding of the material they critique. The word "hack" suggests a lack of originality, skill, or depth in their assessments. These reviewers are likely to offer shallow, formulaic analyses that do not do justice to the complexity of the work under consideration. Nabokov's frustration with such reviewers is evident in his desire to spare the time and effort that would be wasted on their superficial assessments.

Additionally, Nabokov takes aim at "persons who move their lips when reading," a phrase that underscores his contempt for readers who approach literature in a passive and unreflective manner. The image of someone moving their lips while reading suggests a kind of mindless, mechanical engagement with the text, devoid of intellectual curiosity or critical engagement. Nabokov's use of this imagery serves to highlight his belief in the importance of active, thoughtful reading, where readers fully immerse themselves in the text and grapple with its complexities.

Overall, this quote exemplifies Nabokov's commitment to the idea that literature should be approached with seriousness and rigor. He values the role of insightful, perceptive readers and critics who are willing to invest the time and effort required to engage deeply with a work. By contrast, he has little patience for those who approach literature carelessly or superficially, whether as reviewers or as general readers.

Nabokov's frustration with hack reviewers and superficial readers is reflective of a broader concern about the state of literary criticism and engagement with literature. Throughout his career, he expressed a deep appreciation for the artistry and intricacy of language, and he sought to challenge readers to confront the complexities of his work. This quote can be seen as a plea for a more thoughtful and discerning approach to literature, one that values depth of analysis and active, engaged reading.

In conclusion, Vladimir Nabokov's quote about sparing the time and effort of hack reviewers and superficial readers reveals his frustration with those who fail to engage deeply and thoughtfully with literature. It reflects his commitment to the idea that literature should be approached with seriousness and rigor, and that both critics and readers have a responsibility to invest the necessary time and effort to fully comprehend and appreciate the complexities of a work. This quote serves as a reminder of the importance of active, thoughtful engagement with literature and the need to resist superficial and formulaic approaches to criticism and reading.