The concept of “self reliance” used by Emerson helps explain some aspect of Bartleby the scrivener, because it helps to give us some understanding of why he keeps himself isolated from others. It explains how Bartleby, is actually just being himself and being “self reliant” rather than conforming to society. After reading “Bartleby” you first think he is crazy, a little out of touch with society. You think who is he, why does he always say, “he prefers not too”. It is confusing, because you don’t quite know what to think ....