In "Bartleby, the Scribe" by Herman Melville, the author implies the main theme as the choices made in our life they affect the way we live our lives. Both the narrator and Bartleby make choices that affect what happens to them in the present and future. The narrator's characteristics play an important role in the choices he makes and their outcomes, as does Bartleby's persistent stubbornness. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay The narrator wants to be nice to Bartleby and let him stay in his office until he decides to leave. Every day he proposes to leave, but Bartleby persists in wanting to stay. The narrator's choice not to force him to leave his home makes it more difficult to make him leave. Bartleby's answer to every question is "I'd rather not." This spoken phrase appears many times throughout the story and reflects Bartleby's choice to not answer any questions or do anything. Even when the narrator displays his generous characteristics, Bartleby chooses not to listen. "The time has come; you must leave this place; I feel sorry for you; here is the money; but you must go." (672) The narrator offers money to get Bartleby back on his feet, but he refuses it all. Having not chosen to let Bartleby leave at the beginning, he is carrying a sense of guilt. He wants Bartleby gone, but he wouldn't feel good about letting him go and leave him. The narrator chooses to move out of his office and into a new one, leaving Bartleby where he is. His business associates later tell him that Bartleby is wandering around the compound and disturbing them at night. The narrator's decision to choose not to get rid of Bartleby first put him in this situation. Something must be done about him and the narrator sends him to prison. Bartleby dies in prison and the theme of the impact of choices is highlighted. The narrator feels guilty for not being able to help Bartleby, but if he had gotten rid of him sooner, perhaps this might not have happened. On the other hand, if Bartleby had left office, he would not have died and perhaps he would have a job and some money. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay With The choices made by the narrator and Bartleby shaped the story from beginning to end with this main theme. Every decision anyone makes, even today, has a strong and lasting impact on themselves and other people. Good or bad choices make us the unique individuals we are with their impact on us and the people around us.