Blog #16 Theme-Determination (The Grapes of Wrath)

A reoccurring theme in the Grapes of Wrath is the power of determination. When the family is packing up (Steinbeck ch. 8) to head to California, they are optimistic about their future and the journey that lies ahead. They are all overwhelmed by Tom’s homecoming arrival and excited that he will accompany them on the trip. After being forcefully driven out of their home by machinery, the family is very subtle. Yes, they are scared and nervous, but they keep the pink postcard with them that says work is needed in California, and they have hope. The Joad family knows the journey is long. They know they have little money, a junk car, and little food supply, but they pack up and start moving anyway. Along the way they make plans for the future. Even Rose of Sharon, who is pregnant as can be, finds determination through the journey by making plans about the future with Connie (Steinbeck 164). The overall determination for the Joad family is knowing they will have a better future if and when they reach California. They are excited to work and earn money for food and a house. They want to become wealthy and improve their social status. Even when authority threatens the migrants and starts to kick them off the highways, the Joad family is determined to make it to California. They do not let anything stand in their way. When the food is low, and they have little money, Ma Joad becomes very determined to budget what they have and feed her family a nice meal (Steinbeck 351). In the story, Ma is the most determined character mainly because she takes care of the whole family. She gives determination to Pa to keep moving and reassuring him everything will be okay. She gives determination to Rose of Sharon to forget about Connie and think about her baby. She gives determination to Tom to be a better person and to make sure he does not get in trouble. She is the center of the family’s determination throughout the journey to California.

 Steinbeck, John. The Grapes of Wrath. New York. Viking Penguin Inc. 1939