Herman Melville 
Bartleby the Scrivener — A Story of Wall-Street 

Herman Melville’s ‘Bartleby the Scrivener — A Story of Wall-Street’ is a profound examination of the dehumanizing nature of modern capitalism. Written in the mid-19th century, Melville explores themes of alienation, conformity, and the struggle for individuality through the story of an enigmatic scrivener who repeatedly responds to all requests with the phrase ‘I would prefer not to’. The novella’s minimalist prose and unreliable narrator create a sense of unease that reflects the unsettling realities of the time. Melville’s use of symbolism and ambiguity challenges readers to question the boundaries of duty and personal agency in a world driven by profit. This work stands as a classic of American literature for its timeless exploration of the human condition in an industrialized society. Herman Melville, a former sailor who drew upon his experiences at sea to write Moby-Dick, used ‘Bartleby the Scrivener’ to critique the growing commercialism of his era. The author’s frustrations with the limitations of capitalism and the erosion of individuality are evident in the character of Bartleby, who represents a radical refusal to participate in the dehumanizing mechanisms of Wall Street. Melville’s personal struggles with success and creative freedom likely influenced his creation of Bartleby, making the novella a deeply personal and introspective work. For readers interested in thought-provoking literature that challenges societal norms and explores the complexities of human nature, Herman Melville’s ‘Bartleby the Scrivener — A Story of Wall-Street’ is a must-read. This timeless classic offers a unique perspective on the struggles of individuality and conformity in a rapidly changing world, making it a relevant and engaging work for modern audiences.

About the author

Herman Melville (1819–1891), an eminent figure in American literature, is renowned for his deep exploration of the human condition and his masterful storytelling. Melville was born in New York City to a family with a faltering mercantile business, which later informed his literary work. After a brief education and various jobs, he went to sea, an adventure that provided rich material for his writing career. In his late twenties, Melville achieved early success with sea-adventure novels such as ‘Typee’ (1846) and ‘Moby-Dick’ (1851), now considered his magnum opus. However, it was with ‘Bartleby, the Scrivener — A Story of Wall-Street’ (1853) that Melville delivered a distinct shift from high-seas narratives to a psychological exploration set within the confines of urban civilization. This short story, with its themes of isolation and passive resistance, is a nuanced critique of the dehumanizing effects of capitalism and has been widely studied for its literary significance and enigmatic protagonist. Melville’s writing is characterized by a complex narrative style and rich symbolism, often delving into the darker aspects of existence. Though his later works were met with a cooler reception, his posthumous acclaim has established him as a cornerstone of classic American literature.