Bartleby the Scrivener: A Story of Wall Street (The Art of the Novella series) by Herman Melville delves into the life of a mysterious figure who works as a scrivener on New York City’s Wall Street. The novella, set in the mid-19th century, explores themes of alienation and resistance through the character’s enigmatic response to his employer: “I prefer not to.” This concise yet profound work has been hailed by academics as a precursor to modernist literature, though its impact resonates widely among readers, including those who may have found Moby-Dick daunting. The narrative captures a moment of defiance against societal norms and the relentless grind of commerce.

Originally published in Putnam’s Magazine, this edition preserves Melville’s final fiction work before his disheartening experience with critical reception, presenting it as part of the esteemed Art of the Novella series by Melville House. The collection celebrates the often-overlooked form and its practitioners, making these timeless stories accessible to a broader audience for the first time.

At just 100 pages, Bartleby the Scrivener is a poignant exploration of individuality in a capitalist world. Its enduring relevance makes it both an academic treasure and a captivating read for anyone interested in literature’s most intriguing short works.