Studs Terkel's "Working: People Talk About What They Do All Day and How They Feel About What They Do," published in 1974, is a landmark work of oral history that delves into the diverse experiences of American workers

. Through over one hundred interviews, Terkel captures the voices of individuals from all walks of life, from factory workers and farmers to professionals and executives, revealing their perspectives on their jobs, their lives, and the role of work in shaping their identities.

A Tapestry of American Work:

"Working" is not a traditional narrative with a linear plot, but rather a collection of individual testimonies organized by profession or type of work. This structure allows readers to encounter a wide range of voices and perspectives, creating a rich tapestry of American working life in the mid-1970s. Terkel acts as an interviewer and editor, shaping the raw material of these conversations into a powerful and insightful portrait of work and its meaning.

Exploring the Meaning of Work:

At the heart of the book is an exploration of the meaning of work beyond simply earning a living. Terkel seeks to understand how individuals find meaning, satisfaction, or frustration in their jobs, and how their work shapes their lives and aspirations. The interviews reveal a spectrum of attitudes towards work, from pride and fulfillment to alienation and drudgery.

Several key themes emerge from the interviews in "Working":

• The Search for Meaning: Many of the individuals interviewed express a desire for work that provides a sense of purpose and fulfillment beyond mere financial gain. They seek recognition, connection, and the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution. Terkel notes that people are "in a search, too, for daily meaning as well as daily bread, for recognition as well as cash, for astonishment rather than torpor; in short, for a sort of life rather than a Monday through Friday sort of dying".
• Alienation and Dissatisfaction: However, the book also highlights the prevalence of alienation and dissatisfaction among workers, particularly those in repetitive or dehumanizing jobs. Many express feelings of boredom, monotony, and a lack of control over their work. The book reveals the psychological toll of such work on individuals.
• The Impact of Technology and Automation: The rise of automation and technology is a recurring concern for some of the interviewees. They grapple with the fear of being replaced by machines and the potential loss of skilled jobs. This foreshadows the ongoing debate about the future of work and the impact of technological advancements.
• Social and Economic Inequality: "Working" implicitly addresses the social and economic inequalities that shape work experiences. The interviews expose the disparities in wages, working conditions, and opportunities faced by different groups of workers, revealing the effects of race, class, and gender on their lives.
• The Intertwining of Work and Life: Terkel's interviews demonstrate the profound ways in which work shapes individuals' identities, relationships, and overall well-being. Work is not simply a compartmentalized part of life, but rather a central element that influences individuals' feelings about themselves and their place in the world.

Terkel's skillful use of oral history is central to the power of "Working". He allows individuals to tell their stories in their own words, capturing their authentic voices and perspectives. This approach provides a level of intimacy and immediacy that is often missing from more academic or statistical accounts of work. "Working" has been praised for its "incredible abundance of marvelous beings" and its "very special electricity and emotional power," highlighting the effectiveness of Terkel's approach. The book has been recognized as a significant contribution to oral history and a valuable resource for understanding the human experience of work.

"Working" remains a deeply relevant American classic, offering a timeless look at how work fits into American life. The themes and issues explored in the book continue to resonate today, making it a valuable resource for understanding the challenges and opportunities facing workers in the 21st century. The book encourages reflection on the nature of work, its impact on individuals and society, and the ongoing search for meaningful and fulfilling work. As one reviewer notes, "Especially in these Covid times, considering life of those on the other side of the 'essential worker / work from home' divide is important both for escape and introspection. 'Working' does a fantastic job of fomenting both".

Studs Terkel's "Working" is a powerful and illuminating portrait of American working life. Through the voices of a diverse range of individuals, the book explores the complex and often contradictory nature of work, revealing its capacity for both fulfillment and dissatisfaction. Terkel's skillful use of oral history provides a unique and valuable perspective on the human experience of work, making "Working" a timeless and deeply relevant classic.