Bartleby lo scrivano : Book Review

"Bartleby, the Scrivener: A Story of Wall Street" is a novella penned by Herman Melville that delves into the intricacies of human nature and the boundaries of compassion. Set in the world of Wall Street, the story revolves around a lawyer who hires Bartleby, a new scrivener, to copy legal documents. Initially, Bartleby is diligent and hardworking, but soon he begins responding to every request with the disconcerting phrase, "I would prefer not to." As the lawyer grapples with understanding Bartleby's perplexing behavior, he finds himself increasingly frustrated and conflicted.

Melville's "Bartleby, the Scrivener" serves as a captivating and thought-provoking exploration of personal autonomy, compassion, and the nature of work. Through Bartleby's unwavering refusal to comply and the lawyer's struggle to comprehend him, Melville raises fundamental questions about identity, the ethics of work, and the intrinsic value of human life. The narrative style of the novella is introspective, inviting readers to ponder the monotony of life on Wall Street during the 19th century.

The character of Bartleby is particularly intriguing and enigmatic. His predilection for repeating the phrase "I would prefer not to" challenges the reader to contemplate the nature of free will and the power of personal choice. As the story unfolds, the lawyer's futile attempts to resolve Bartleby's behavior are met with indifference, prompting readers to reflect on the limitations of our ability to understand and influence others.

The Wall Street setting serves as a poignant backdrop for Melville's exploration of human behavior. It is a place consumed by profit and conformity, where individuality often succumbs to the banality of routine. The lawyer's struggle to comprehend and ultimately tolerate Bartleby becomes a metaphor for society's response to those who deviate from its expectations.

In conclusion, "Bartleby, the Scrivener: A Story of Wall Street" is an enthralling and thought-provoking novella that compels readers to contemplate themes of personal autonomy, compassion, and the nature of work. Melville's skillful writing style, well-developed characters, and exploration of societal norms make this book a timeless work of literature that continues to resonate with readers today.

What are readers saying?

"Bartleby, the Scrivener" by Herman Melville has garnered a diverse range of reviews, with readers expressing varying opinions about the novella. The story follows a Wall Street lawyer and his peculiar clerk named Bartleby. Here is a summary of the feedback:

1. Positive appraisals: Numerous readers lauded Melville's writing style and the distinctive character of Bartleby. They commended the novella's exploration of themes such as individuality, conformity, and the nature of work. Some reviewers appreciated the philosophical undertones and found the story to be thought-provoking. The concise and engaging narrative style also received praise.

2. Negative critiques: Some readers found the novella to be slow-paced and lacking in action. They felt that the characters were underdeveloped and the plot uneventful. Several reviewers mentioned their dissatisfaction with unanswered questions left by the story. Additionally, a few readers struggled with the archaic language and writing style, making it challenging to connect with the narrative.

3. Character analysis: Several reviewers particularly enjoyed the enigmatic character of Bartleby. They found his refusal to conform to societal expectations to be intriguing and thought-provoking. Bartleby's passive resistance and the influence he had on those around him were seen as the novella's strongest elements by many readers. Some reviewers also examined and appreciated the lawyer's perspective and personal journey.

4. Themes and symbolism: Many readers delved into the themes and symbolism present in the novella. They explored the significance of Bartleby's defiance and the broader commentary on the dehumanizing effects of a capitalist society. The office setting was seen as symbolic of conformity and the challenges of modern work life. The story's ambiguous ending sparked intriguing discussions among readers about its deeper meanings.

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