Chapter 6: Fading Away Analysis

 Stephen nodded assent. 'Though as to master,' said he, glancing again at Rachael, 'not master onny more. That's aw enden twixt him and me.'... 'Whether I ha left'n his work, or whter his work ha left'n me, cooms t' th' same. His work and me are parted... I mun turn my face fro Coketown fur th' time, and seek a fort'n, dear, by beginnin fresh.' (152).

In this passage, Stephen has just departed from Bounderby's and ran into Rachael; he explains to her he quit his job as a Hand of Bounderby's factory.

The significance of the labor unions goes beyond the workers, or "Hands." The relationship between the authority and the Hands reflects the labor unions, because the authority holds the fate of the Hands of Coketown--ironically in their hands. Bounderby is the leader, rather a dicatator ,of the industrial revolution in Coketown; whereas, the Hands are the poverish, low class making up most of the town. However, with money comes power, and thus Bounderby is granted the position of power. Bounderby's authority is emphasized as Stepehn refers to him as "master." A master is not simply an authority figure, but rather an authority figure with a sort of a dictating control over his people.

Another technique used is the poor language Stephen has. This creates a stereotypical image of a poor, uneducated man with no purpose or a future. However, there is a strange connection between Bounderby and his Hands. He makes notice of his dpressing childhood: "I was born in a ditch...I was so sickly...ragged and dirty" (21). The description Bounderby uses for himself, fits the image of Stephen. Ironically, Stephen seems to have the same intentions as Bounderby: to "beginnin fresh." Stephen aspires to become what Bounderby is. His courage to take a stand and rebel against Bounderby reveals his strong personality to be an individual, not strictly a "Hand." Thus, reflecting the importance of the individual, to resist comforming to the standards within a societal class. Proving any individual is capable to step out of their comfort-zone if they have the confidence to become thier own authority.