There are signs of hope in these chapters, like the friendship of the Joad's family with the Wilsons, the story of Mae the waitress, or the bonds and humanity that emerge among families that meet on the road. However, overall, drama and tragedy increase. First, death strikes the family, who looses Grampa and Granma. Even the death of the dog brings a component of bad luck. Second, uncertainty and strong worries about the future in California appear as they meet people for whom the California dream did not work. Finally, the unraveling of the family. Not only with he grandparents death, but also with the departure of Noah.
How do you feel the tragedy is affecting the characters? For instance, Ma Joad?
The story of Mae, the waitress, seems like a drop of kindness among so much harshness. How do you think that story fits? Do you think that kind of circle of gratitude happens in real life? Or is it too idealistic?
What about the illustration of capitalism that Steinbeck does? Again, it is interesting to remember that the book was written in 1939.
The only thing that I see is that these things are happening exactly the same way today, and it doesn't seem to be our business. How many migrants cross borders in worse situations?
ReplyDeleteSteinbeck writes it masterly, it strikes me again and again that this book is over 60 years old, and how things have changed and at the same time, in the basics, stayed the same.
I'm behind schedule, but always hooked with the reading, even though I know the end... I had watched the movie a couple years ago, another must-see, it felt almost like an old documentary with a reality that had been hidden, covered.
I have the same feeling, Rocio. So incredibly real. It is scary. It is frustrating. It is sad.
ReplyDeleteThe descriptions are excellent, I can picture every moment and the characters in my head. I am planning to watch the film afterwards, but I am glad I don't know the end!!
I also have a very clear picture in my mind of the characters, the landscape, and even of the dust. That is why I have mix feelings about watching the movie. Although I am sure it is a great one, I do not know if I want to have a different picture of the story. Will see… :-)
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