Now that a sense of community has been created between the migrant families, they are able to trust one another. Respecting each other's rights and celebrating happy times have been major parts of continuing this community. The families were introduced to the idea that California might not be what they expected in the last chapter. A man explained how he took his family there only to find cheap work, and in the end, he lost his family. The Joad's were quick to write of this man's story and continue to California. I don't understand why they weren't more worried because this guy was completely honest by sharing his tragic story. They become a little hesitant, but having nowhere else to go, they head to California.
When they finally arrive in California, Pa is ready to find work. "I'd kinda like to get acrost her an' get settled into a job (Steinbeck 203)." This just shows what type of person Pa is. After all this traveling and lack of rest, his first priority is to get work in order to provide for his family. The Joad's are also introduced to the nickname given to the by the California natives which is 'Okies'. "Well, Okie use' ta mean you was from Oklahoma. Now it means you're a dirty son-of-a-b****. Okie means you're scum (Steinbeck 205-206)," a Californian told the family. The derogatory term is used more often now along with the phrases "you aren't wanted here", "return home", etc. The term alone bothers me because it's very offensive to these migrant farmers because it's not their fault that they are in the situation that they're in. However, what bothers me the most is the fact that a police officer, a figure of authority, is using the term. I feel like that's a job of equality, and using that term is far from equality.
When they reach the farming side of California, the family is amazed and so happy to see fields of green once again. However, this happiness doesn't last long because they learn that granma has died. Granma wasn't a large, in depth character, so I am interested to see how her death with change the family.
[Bibliography]
Steinbeck, John. The Grapes of Wrath. New York: Penguin, 2002. Print.
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