Bartleby, The Scrivener

Bartleby, The Scrivener by Herman Melville is a profound and haunting tale that explores themes of isolation, free will, and the dehumanizing effects of modern work. The story is narrated by a Wall Street lawyer who hires a quiet and enigmatic scrivener named Bartleby. Initially diligent, Bartleby soon begins to refuse his tasks with the simple yet unsettling phrase, “I would prefer not to.” As his passive resistance escalates, his employer struggles to understand the man’s mysterious behavior, leading to a meditation on society’s treatment of those who refuse to conform.

Narrated by Daniel Pagone, this audiobook brings Melville’s masterful storytelling to life, capturing the eerie detachment and deep existential themes of the novella. Bartleby, The Scrivener is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers and listeners alike, offering a thought-provoking look at individualism, alienation, and the silent struggles within the workplace.

Originally published in 1853, Melville’s novella remains one of the most influential works in American literature, inspiring countless interpretations and discussions on human nature and social structures.

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Release date

Audiobook: 8 March 2025