Question

In at least 100 words, explain the significance of Bartleby's mantra "I would prefer not to" in Melville's short story "Bartleby the Scrivener." How does it function differently than if he had said, for instance, "I will not" or "I do not want to"?

Answer 1

The choice of this phrase has a paradoxical meaning in a way that Bartleby refuses to do the task asked from him and the expression of this rejection. It is a refusal, but at the same time it is a polite refusal because even when his boss asks again "You will not?", he answers again with "I prefer not". The phrase emphasizes Bartleby's passive resistance. The different use of the phrase, of course could have had a different effect in the story. It might cause a different demonstration and a different ending for the story. The boss could have replied differently because the refusal would be not polite then. However, the choice is intentional because of the development of the story. Therefore, it is suitable in its own way.