Bartleby the Scrivener, A Story of Wall Street.


Read by Bob Tassinari

(4.5 stars; 170 reviews)

Bartleby the Scrivener is a thought-provoking short story set against the backdrop of Wall Street, exploring themes of isolation, conformity, and the human condition. The narrative follows an unnamed lawyer who hires a new scrivener, Bartleby, only to find that his new employee increasingly refuses to perform tasks, responding with the enigmatic phrase, "I would prefer not to."

As Bartleby's passive resistance escalates, the lawyer grapples with his own moral and ethical dilemmas, leading to a profound examination of the nature of work and the complexities of human relationships. Melville's unique blend of realism and existential inquiry invites listeners to reflect on the implications of choice and the struggle for individuality in a mechanized society.

Originally published in 1853, this story remains a significant commentary on the challenges of modern life, making it a distinctive piece in American literature. Melville's masterful prose and the haunting character of Bartleby continue to resonate, prompting discussions about the balance between personal freedom and societal expectations.

Chapters

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Chapter 1 22:37 Read by Bob Tassinari
Chapter 2 18:16 Read by Bob Tassinari
Chapter 3 24:36 Read by Bob Tassinari
Chapter 4 24:36 Read by Bob Tassinari

Reviews


(5 stars)

Read it in high school in the seventies. Back then, could not have appreciated Mellville's facility with language. Further, it was well-read here, with even some tricky words being pronounced correctly. A good, discussion-provoking tale. (E.g. is Bartleby pitiable or manipulative? One can adduce textual support for both views.)

This was very well read. The reader was clear-voiced and had a calm tone that fit the voice of the story's narrator IMO.


(5 stars)

Character


(2.5 stars)

Delving into the character of one eccentric man

Intriguing...sort of


(2 stars)

This story was very interesting, but the end left me thinking, "WHY? Why did I just read this???" (it was a school assignment, that's why!!!!) I was hooked onto the story for most of the book, but at the end I felt it had been a waste of my time.


(5 stars)

An odd tale of Wall Street from the author of south seas tales like Moby Dick and Types. Like a modern day Cowan Brothers film it leaves you wondering. The kind reader has a somewhat flat affect but it is a good match for such a story. Many thanks!

By the title is thought this would be dull, it was anything but!


(5 stars)

Excruciating


(3 stars)

I missed the point of this whole endeavor


(5 stars)

very good short story and social concept