"It pays to be obvious, especially if you have a reputation for subtlety"

This quote by Isaac Asimov recommends that it is beneficial to be simple and clear in communication, particularly if one has a reputation for being more subtle. This suggests that if one is known for being more subtle, it is very important to be more apparent in order to get one's point across. This could be translated as a reminder to be conscious of how one communicates, and to be aware of how one's track record might affect how one's message is received. It might likewise be interpreted as a suggestion to be clear and direct in interaction, even if one is known for being more subtle. Eventually, this quote suggests that it pays to be apparent in interaction, particularly if one has a reputation for subtlety.