Meaning: The quote "All my stories are webs of style and none seems at first blush to contain much kinetic matter. For me style is matter." by Vladimir Nabokov, a renowned novelist, offers insight into his approach to storytelling and the importance he places on style in his literary works. Nabokov was known for his distinctive prose and intricate narratives, and this quote sheds light on the significance he attributed to the stylistic elements of his writing.

In this quote, Nabokov suggests that his stories are intricately woven webs of style, implying that the aesthetic and linguistic aspects of his writing are paramount. He acknowledges that at first glance, his stories may not appear to contain much "kinetic matter," indicating that they might not seem to possess a significant amount of action or external movement. However, he contends that for him, style is indeed "matter," emphasizing the fundamental role that style plays in his storytelling.

Nabokov's assertion that "style is matter" encapsulates his belief that the manner in which a story is told, the linguistic and aesthetic choices made by the author, is as crucial as the content itself. By describing his stories as "webs of style," he conveys the complexity and intricacy of his narrative structures, suggesting that the interplay of style and substance is central to his literary creations.

Nabokov's emphasis on style as a substantive component of his writing aligns with his reputation as a master of prose and linguistic virtuosity. Throughout his works, he demonstrated a meticulous attention to detail, employing rich and evocative language to craft vivid and immersive narratives. His belief that style is integral to the essence of his stories reflects his view that the form and expression of his writing are inseparable from the underlying themes and ideas he seeks to convey.

Furthermore, Nabokov's assertion challenges traditional notions of storytelling, which often prioritize plot and action over stylistic embellishments. By affirming the significance of style as matter, he asserts the artistic autonomy of the writer in shaping the substance of a narrative through the nuances of language and form. This aligns with Nabokov's own devotion to the craft of writing and his insistence on the meticulous construction of his literary works.

In conclusion, Vladimir Nabokov's quote "All my stories are webs of style and none seems at first blush to contain much kinetic matter. For me style is matter." offers a profound glimpse into his artistic philosophy and approach to storytelling. It underscores the centrality of style in his works, portraying it as an essential and substantive element of his narratives. By emphasizing the intricate interplay of style and substance, Nabokov illuminates the depth and complexity of his literary creations, inviting readers to appreciate the profound significance he attributes to the art of storytelling.