In McSweeney’s “Short Imagined Monologues”:

 

“Vladimir Nabokov Didn’t Have to Put Up with Payroll”

http://www.mcsweeneys.net/links/monologues/26nabokovpayroll.html

 

Below follow the first three paragraphs:

He didn't waste a precious second considering the proper allotment of shift differential or overtime pay. And you know why? Because, back then, people respected creative genius.

Teri, you're my boss—my "patron," if you will—and all I ask is similar treatment.

Vladimir Nabokov never had to worry about the vending machine. He didn't have to keep a constant vigil to ensure that Lydia, the overweight Group Leader who becomes frustrated when the peanut M&M's get stuck, wasn't in the process of wrecking the whole contraption with violent shakes. No, old Vlad didn't concern himself with those matters. People took care of him. They understood an artist's need for serenity and isolation.

Best,

Juan

 

-- http://fulmerford.com/