“Quality” by John Galsworthy

Introduction:

• “Quality” is a short story by John Galsworthy that highlights the life and dedication of Mr. Gessler, a German immigrant bootmaker in London, who prioritizes quality over commercial success.

Key Points:

1. Introduction to Mr. Gessler:

   • The narrator knew Mr. Gessler from his childhood because Mr. Gessler made boots for his father.
   • Mr. Gessler and his elder brother owned a small, distinguished shop in a fashionable part of London.
   • The shop had no sign except for “Gessler Brothers” and displayed only a few pairs of boots.

2. Mr. Gessler’s Craftsmanship:

   • Mr. Gessler made boots only on order and his boots always fit perfectly.
   • Making boots was described as an art by Mr. Gessler, emphasizing his skill and dedication.

3. Customer Experience:

   • Visiting the shop was a serene experience, akin to entering a church, with the smell of leather.
   • Mr. Gessler’s process involved showing high-quality leather and taking orders with precision.

4. Mr. Gessler’s Commitment to Quality:

   • Mr. Gessler’s boots lasted a long time, showcasing their superior quality.
   • When the narrator once complained about a creaky pair of boots, Mr. Gessler was concerned and offered to fix or replace them.

5. Competition and Hardships:

   • Mr. Gessler criticized large firms that relied on advertising rather than quality.
   • He lamented that these firms were taking away business from craftsmen like him who loved their work.

6. Personal Struggles:

   • The narrator noticed signs of struggle and aging in Mr. Gessler, especially after his elder brother’s death.
   • Despite hardships, Mr. Gessler continued to make exceptional boots, though business was dwindling.

7. Final Years:

   • Mr. Gessler aged significantly and his business suffered as fewer orders came in.
   • The narrator found that Mr. Gessler had passed away due to slow starvation because he prioritized his work over his well-being.

8. Legacy of Craftsmanship:

   • The shop was taken over by new owners who acknowledged Mr. Gessler’s unmatched quality.
   • The narrator reflected on Mr. Gessler’s dedication and the sad reality that despite his superior craftsmanship, he could not survive the competition.

Discussion Questions:

1. How does Mr. Gessler’s dedication to quality impact his business?

   • This encourages students to think about the balance between quality and commercial success.

2. What are the challenges faced by traditional craftsmen in the modern market?

   • Students can explore the impact of industrialization and marketing on small businesses.

3. Why do you think Mr. Gessler did not want anyone else to touch his boots?

   • This question helps students understand the personal pride and standards of excellence Mr. Gessler had for his work.