The story's tension largely stems from the conflict of interest between the lawyer and his three scriveners. As an employer and esteemed legal professional, the lawyer inhabits a social world quite distinct from that of the scriveners. Since the narrative unfolds from his viewpoint, part of the irony in ''Bartleby the Scrivener'' is revealed through the lawyer's unintentional exposure of his class prejudices. For instance, the lawyer shows annoyance at Turkey's worn-out clothing. He patronizingly assumes that with "so small an income," Turkey likely can't afford a new coat, yet he never considers simply raising Turkey's wages to help him appear more presentable. Moreover, the lawyer fails to acknowledge the mind-numbing monotony of copying legal documents as a factor contributing to the scriveners' unusual behaviors. His primary focus remains on boosting office productivity, often at the cost of his employees' well-being. This insensitivity to his workers' struggles hints at his inability to grasp Bartleby's dissatisfaction with his role.