Reading Quality by John Galsworthy

Art in an Age of Profit: Reading Quality by John Galsworthy

Introduction

In a rapidly industrializing world, where speed and profit often take precedence over care and craftsmanship, John Galsworthy’s short story Quality emerges as a quiet yet powerful critique of modern commercial values. The story is one of my favorite. At its heart lies the figure of Mr. Gessler, a German shoemaker in London, whose unwavering commitment to his craft turns his life into both a tragedy and a testament. Through a simple narrative, Galsworthy explores the conflict between art and commerce, raising questions that remain relevant even today.

Brief Summary

The story is narrated by a customer who has known the Gessler brothers since his youth. They run a small boot-making shop, producing handmade boots of exceptional quality. Mr. Gessler, in particular, treats shoemaking not as a trade but as an art. He insists on using the finest leather and dedicates himself entirely to the perfection of each pair.

However, his devotion comes at a cost. Large commercial firms begin to dominate the market with cheaper, mass-produced footwear, supported by aggressive advertising. As a result, the Gesslers lose customers. The elder brother eventually dies, and Mr. Gessler continues alone, growing increasingly weak and impoverished. Despite his dire circumstances, he refuses to compromise on quality. In the end, the narrator learns that Mr. Gessler has died of starvation, having sacrificed his life for his art.

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Themes

1. Art vs. Commercialism

The central theme of Quality is the conflict between genuine craftsmanship and industrial capitalism. Mr. Gessler represents the traditional artisan who values perfection over profit. For him, making boots is an art, as reflected in his words, “Id is an Ardt” (Galsworthy). This statement encapsulates his philosophy—work must be done with dedication and integrity, not merely for financial gain.

In contrast, the “Big Firms” symbolize modern capitalism. They rely on machinery and advertising rather than skill and sincerity. Galsworthy does not explicitly condemn them, but through Mr. Gessler’s suffering, he highlights the human cost of such systems. The story suggests that while commercialism may succeed economically, it often erodes deeper values.

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2. Integrity and Moral Strength

Mr. Gessler’s character embodies integrity. Even when faced with poverty, he does not abandon his principles. He never complains bitterly about his competitors; instead, he expresses quiet disappointment that they lack true love for the craft. His moral strength lies in his refusal to compromise.

This raises an important question: what does it mean to succeed? In material terms, Mr. Gessler fails—he loses his business and his life. Yet, in ethical terms, he remains victorious because he preserves his dignity and values.

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3. The Tragedy of the Individual in Modern Society

The story also reflects the broader theme of the individual being overshadowed by larger economic forces. Mr. Gessler is not defeated by lack of skill but by a system that prioritizes efficiency and visibility over quality. His death symbolizes the disappearance of traditional craftsmanship in the face of industrialization.

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Character Analysis

Mr. Gessler

Mr. Gessler is the emotional and moral center of the story. He is not a dramatic or outspoken character; rather, his quiet dedication makes him memorable. Physically, he becomes increasingly frail, reflecting his economic decline. Yet, his inner strength remains intact.

His broken English—“Id is an Ardt”—adds authenticity to his character and emphasizes his identity as an outsider in London. More importantly, it reinforces the idea that his values are different from those of the commercial world around him.

From a psychological perspective, Mr. Gessler is deeply committed to his work, almost to the point of self-destruction. His inability to compromise suggests a rigid yet admirable personality. He does not adapt to changing times, which ultimately leads to his downfall.

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The Narrator

The narrator plays a crucial role as an observer and mediator. He represents the average consumer who appreciates quality but is also influenced by convenience and modern trends. His occasional purchases from large firms reveal the subtle complicity of society in Mr. Gessler’s decline.

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Narrative Style

Galsworthy employs a first-person narrative, which creates intimacy and authenticity. The narrator’s personal connection with Mr. Gessler makes the story more emotionally engaging. The language is simple and direct, yet it carries significant emotional weight.

The pacing of the story is gradual, mirroring the slow decline of Mr. Gessler’s life. This deliberate structure enhances the sense of inevitability and deepens the element of pathos.

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Symbolism and Literary Devices

1. Boots as a Symbol

The boots symbolize both artistic excellence and moral integrity. Each pair represents Mr. Gessler’s dedication and passion. Unlike mass-produced goods, his boots carry a personal touch, reflecting the individuality of the craftsman.

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2. The Shop

The small, dimly lit shop represents a fading world of traditional values. As the story progresses, the shop becomes emptier, symbolizing the decline of craftsmanship in a commercialized society.

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3. Pathos

Pathos is one of the most powerful elements in the story. The reader feels deep sympathy for Mr. Gessler, especially as his physical condition deteriorates. His silent suffering and ultimate death evoke a strong emotional response, making the story unforgettable.

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Critical Interpretation

At a deeper level, Quality can be seen as a critique of modern consumer culture. Galsworthy suggests that society often prioritizes convenience and cost over authenticity and excellence. Mr. Gessler’s tragedy lies not only in his poverty but in the world’s inability to recognize true value.

The story also invites a philosophical reading. Mr. Gessler’s life raises questions about the purpose of work. Is work merely a means of survival, or can it be an expression of identity and passion? In choosing the latter, Mr. Gessler elevates his craft but pays a heavy price.

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Relevance to Modern Society

The themes of Quality remain highly relevant today. In an era dominated by fast fashion and mass production, the tension between quality and quantity persists. Many traditional artisans continue to struggle against large corporations, much like Mr. Gessler.

The story also resonates in the context of modern careers. It challenges readers to reflect on their own values: should one prioritize financial success or personal fulfillment? Mr. Gessler’s life suggests that true satisfaction lies in dedication to one’s craft, even if it is not materially rewarding.

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Conclusion

Quality is a deeply moving story that transcends its simple narrative to address complex social and moral issues. Through the character of Mr. Gessler, John Galsworthy presents a powerful critique of commercialism and a tribute to artistic integrity. The story reminds us that while the world may reward efficiency and profit, true “quality” lies in sincerity, dedication, and the courage to remain faithful to one’s values.

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Works Cited 

Galsworthy, John. Quality. In The Inn of Tranquillity, Heinemann, 1912.