Upon an increase in his business, the lawyer hires a third scrivener, the sedate, quiet Bartleby, in the hope that his placidity will counterbalance the disturbances caused by his two other workers.

WSJ: Five Best: Tales of Idleness

So, despite the state's genuine allurements, such as the beauty of its lakes, the renowned placidity of its people and its top-notch public-education system, it has yet to see a big influx of new, highly skilled workers.

ECONOMIST: Minnesota��s job market: Land of 1,000 opportunities | The