There are deeper things in play there. Bulgakov had very peculiar relationship with Stalin. He hoped, against all odds and reason, that Stalin would read the book and like it and would protect him. That is what the scene when Woland talks to the Master about his novel is about. Stalin actually kind of did help Bulgakov somewhat, and enabled his works to be produced in theaters (without which Bulgakov would not have any means to support himself). It was kind of cat and mouse game which Stalin, having a sadistic streak, loved to play - one day he helped Bulgakov, another day reverted everything back. But Bulgakov sincerely hoped that Stalin would personally read the book and like it. That, of course, never happened and probably couldn't happen.