Meaning: This quote by Vladimir Nabokov, the renowned Russian-American novelist, encapsulates his unique perspective on artistic creation and the role of the artist in society. Nabokov was known for his disdain for mediocrity and his unwavering commitment to artistic excellence. In this quote, he provocatively suggests that there is a certain invigorating quality to the crassness and banality of the "philistine vulgarity" that he so vehemently opposed in his work.

Nabokov's use of the term "philistine vulgarity" is a deliberate choice that reflects his deep-seated contempt for the unrefined and unimaginative aspects of popular culture. The term "philistine" originally referred to a member of a people inhabiting the ancient Philistia, but over time it came to signify a person who is smugly indifferent or hostile to artistic and cultural values. "Vulgarity," on the other hand, refers to a lack of sophistication or refinement. By combining these two terms, Nabokov paints a vivid picture of the kind of cultural environment that he found so repugnant.

At first glance, the idea that "philistine vulgarity" could be exhilarating might seem paradoxical or even contradictory, especially coming from a writer who was known for his uncompromising standards of literary excellence. However, upon closer examination, it becomes apparent that Nabokov's statement reflects a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between high art and popular culture.

One way to interpret this quote is as a reflection of Nabokov's belief that the very existence of "philistine vulgarity" serves as a powerful catalyst for the creation of great art. In other words, the stark contrast between the crassness of popular culture and the refinement of high art can inspire artists to push the boundaries of creativity and originality. By confronting and engaging with the most base and uninspired aspects of society, artists are compelled to seek out new forms of expression and to challenge prevailing norms and conventions.

Furthermore, Nabokov's assertion that "philistine vulgarity" is exhilarating may also be seen as a commentary on the nature of artistic rebellion. Throughout his career, Nabokov reveled in defying literary conventions and expectations, and he often sought to shock and provoke his readers with his unconventional narratives and controversial subject matter. In this context, the exhilaration that he associates with "philistine vulgarity" could be interpreted as a kind of creative adrenaline – the thrill of subverting and transcending the mundane and the ordinary.

It is also worth considering that Nabokov's use of the word "exhilarating" in this quote may be a deliberate choice to emphasize the visceral and emotional impact of encountering "philistine vulgarity." Rather than simply dismissing or condemning it, Nabokov seems to suggest that there is a certain potency and vitality to be found in the very coarseness and lack of refinement that he so abhorred.

In conclusion, Vladimir Nabokov's quote about "philistine vulgarity" offers a thought-provoking glimpse into his complex relationship with popular culture and the artistic process. By exploring the tension between the crassness of "philistine vulgarity" and the pursuit of artistic excellence, Nabokov's words invite us to reconsider our assumptions about the nature of creativity and the role of the artist in society. Whether one agrees with his perspective or not, there is no denying the enduring power and relevance of Nabokov's ideas in the ongoing dialogue about the interplay between art, culture, and societal values.