Lauras future

Do you guys think that Laura will overcome her shyness and become more social? What do you think her future holds? Do you think she'll go back to school?

Tom’s Departure

What do you think about Tom leaving at the end of The Glass Menagerie? Do you think he should have stayed or catered to his own desires and left as he did? Was his parting detrimental to the family?

Glass Menagerie

How did you guys feel about Laura being kissed, swept off her feet and then O'Conner leaving her?

In my honest opinion, I was mad because no one should act so sweet and give someone faith and then leave them, and saying that there is someone else in their life. Although Laura finally got kissed, she was left with the burden in heart that she will not be loved by the guy that she has had a crush on since high school.

The Dying of The Light

Overall, while the reading was tedious at times, I liked reading Light in August. I felt the book taught many lessons, such as the fact a person should never run away from their past. Did you like the book?Who was your favorite character in Light in August? Who did you despise?  What do you think was the biggest Lesson the book taught us? Do you think the book was better than The Scarlet Letter?

The Glass Menagerie

What is your favorite quote from The Glass Menagerie? Mine is ...
                  
 And overall, did you like how it ended or were you expecting something more?

Jim's Goodbye

So now we know Jim had no intentions in being with Laura but he made it seem like it. Knowing now that he is engaged and in love with someone else makes us feel a little mad that he'll play with Laura's emotions. Do you guys think he did this out of compassion for her to at least make her happy once in her life or just to get her hopes up and brake her a little more?

Spoiler Alert!

Were you disappointed that Jim and Laura did not end up together? I felt like it was a good learning experience for Laura and I think he was there to help build her self-confidence.

Glass menagerie

So far in what we have read in The Glass menagerie, which of the characters can you guys relate to the most and why.

Chapter 18

Ms. Ross mentioned today that every character dies for a reason. Why do you think Christmas died? And what do you think of Bryon's development?

Chapter 17

In chapter 17, Lena has her baby and Byron now has all the responsibilities that a father would have. Also, we find out that Hightower does not want Byron to be involved with Lena. "...You have a manchild that is not his, by a man that is not him. You will be forcing into his life two men and only the third part of a woman..." (Faulkner 411).

What would you do if you were Byron and had to be a father to Lena'a baby? Would you walk away from it all or stay with Lena? Do you agree with Hightower that Byron shouldn't be with Lena?

Christmas's Dilemma

We learn in chapter 13 about Miss Burden's pregnancy, and how she  was pressuring Christmas into marriage. We also learn that Miss Burden tries to shoot Christmas, and he kills her in self-defense.Do you think Christmas's actions  were justified? What would you have done if you were in his position? What do you think will happen to Christmas? Do you think Christmas will ever find happiness

Racism Around The World

Today we opened a discussion about racism/segregation and how it is still relevant to our society. It still continues and what is worse is that some negative views of racism haven't changed throughout some parts of the human race. What do you guys think about race and what are your opinions about it? What do you think should change?

The lack of self-sufficiency in women??

Throughout the novel, much of the female characters encounter the misogynistic views of society, whether it be the influence of males or themselves, women seem to be polarized, expected to lack independence and power over their own life. What are some examples of misogyny in the story?  Are there any similarities In the Light in August that you can compare to the real world?  

Characters

So far about what we have read, who do you guys think has had a tougher life despite where they are now?

McEachern Prediction

If some of you can remember what you put for your answer on the DBQ, one of them asked to basically make a prediction about who McEachern will be in the story. Thinking back to that, was your prediction close to what McEachern really is, or was it far off? What was it that you put that was wrong? What would you write now after seeing who this man is?

Who is to blame?

As we see, so far, Christmas is a character that is serious and obscure. With that, these characteristics continue to become a part of his life however, who is to blame for why Christmas remains to stay this way? Is it McEachern's fault for imposing so much on him or is it himself that keeps himself restricted?

Joe Christmas's change

So far about what we know about Joe Christmas, why do you guys think he is suddenly rebelling against his "dad" and the things he had prohibit him?

Changing the setting of Light in August ;-)

If the setting of Light in August was placed in our present society, what do you think will be different in the book? I personally thing that Lena will not be isolated or looked down on for being pregnant as much as she is right now because in today's society the stigma associated with people who get pregnant before is marriage has greatly dwindled. What else do you think will be different? <3

Apperception

We already know that Lucas left and changed his name once he found out that Lena was pregnant. But that wasn't the case in Lena's point of view. She was told that he was forced to work at the mill. Before he left, she told him to write to her if he gets the chance. Time flew by, no letters were sent, and she grew impatient. She took it upon herself to go find him in Jefferson. She thought that he would be surprised. If Lucas hasn't communicated to her, people are telling her that there is no "Lucas Burch" around town, that should tell her something. She is blinded from the fact that he may have left her. I agree with Mrs. Ross when she said that Lena was too naïve. What are your thoughts about her?

Guys for my Independent book I'm doing Call of the Wild  by Jack London. Do any of you have some background info about him or have read some of his works?

Lena finds Out about Joe Brown

"' Joe Brown' she says. "' Has he got a little scar right here by his mouth"' (Faulkner, 1985, p. 56). Lena asks Bryon about Joe brown, she is familiar with his looks.  Who do you think Joe brown is? Do you believe that Lucas Burch is Joe brown? What do you think Lena will do next after finding out about Joe brown? Do you think that Lena will ever find Lucas Burch and start her family?

Is Christmas truly Christmas?

"He looked like a tramp, yet not.... cocked at an angle arrogant and baleful above his still face" (Faulkner, p. 31,  1985).

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Thinking about Christmas, how is the character Christmas different/similar to the holiday Christmas? Also, do you think he matches the holiday, Christmas or is the character emblematic of something about the holiday, Christmas?

Chapter one

So far we know that Lena is on her way to find her babies' daddy. Everyone believes it is just a waste of her time to go out to look for someone who is no good for her. However she might have a something else in mind. What are her motives for when she finds Lucas? What do you think might happen? Better watch out Burch.

Faulkner & Modernism

Based on the handout we received on the 17th, entitled Modernism and Postmodernism, which of the seven characteristics of modernism are  apparent in William Faulkner's Light In August?

Bravery

During the discussion in class today, it was mentioned that Mary Warren is brave for protecting herself from John Proctor. I believe that this was very significant. The fact that she did this knowing that she could get punished is inspiring. Women didn't have much authority back then and for Mary to stand up for herself proves that she believes that women should have equal authority with men as well. Do you think she is going to tell Abigail's secret?

Abigail

It continues to amaze me how Abigail can lie to the court and get so many people killed without feeling guilt. Abigail is a selfish person. how can she be selfish when all the people in their community are being hung.

A Woman's Dignity!

"terrified, but coming erect, striving for her authority: I'll not stand whipping any more!"

Thinking about our newly found character, Mary Warren, what are your initial thoughts on who she is? Also, think about woman during that time. What's so significant about her?

Act 2

In Act 2 we have a lot going on. For instances Elizabeth, John Procter's wife, has been charged of being a witch. However, all evidence points to Abigail, she wants to blight Elizabeth's life so she can take her place. Do you believe Abigail will be caught or do you think she will be okay because of her place in this society, how she is the niece of Parris??

Independent Book

Brianda Curiel:
My Independent book essay has to do with sacrifice in humanity. What are some sacrifices you guys can think of when it comes to humanity? Or what do we sacrifice for humanity?

Independent Book

Brianda Curiel:
My Independent book essay has to do with sacrifice in humanity. What are some sacrifices you guys can think of when it comes to humanity? Or what do we sacrifice for humanity?

A Witch Hunt

How is today's "Birther Movement" concerning our U.S. President like McCarthyism? The Salem Witch Trials? Are there any other connections you can make to our current society?

Perfume

."This perfume was not like any perfume known before. It was not a scent that made things smell better, not some sachet, some toiletry. It was something completely new, capable of creating a whole world, rich world, and in an instant you forgot all the loathsomeness around you and felt so rich, so at ease, so free, so fine. . ." (Suskind, 2006, p.87).

     This is a quote from my independent reading book, Perfume: The Story of a Murderer by Patrick Suskind. I wanted to share this quote because I enjoy reading the way Suskind describes scents. Suskind describes the scents of the perfumes as if they were feeling which I really like because I have never read anything as unique as this.

What is unique about your book? What do you like or dislike about it? A quote/ passage that really stood out to you?

Elisa's Broken Spirit

"Her face was turned away from him. ' It will be enough if we can have wine. It will be plenty.' She turned up her coat collar so he could not see that she was crying weakly-like an old woman" ( Steinbeck, 2000, p. 10).

Elisa spirit is shattered by the man's actions. Why do you think she reacts this way? Why do you think the man's actions hurt her so much? If you were in Elisa situation, how would you feel about the man's actions?

Final Thoughts of The Scarlet Letter

Now that we have completed reading the Scarlet letter, what are your final thoughts? Do you believe that there should have been a different ending? Why do you think Chillingworth gave his wealth to Pearl in the end?

Pearl Refuses Change

" 'Children will not abide any, the slightest, change in the accustomed aspects of things that are daily before their eyes. Pearl misses something which she has always seen me wear.' " (Hawthorne, 2005, p.189). 

Just like Pearl, we have all encountered a change that we do not accept. We fear change and are accustomed to being familiar with how things are now. Have you ever experienced a change that you refused to accept or were you ever scared of things not being the way you wanted them to be? Did you feel like that change was a threat?

What are you feelings towards the way that Pearl reacted to Hester's missing scarlet letter? Do you think she exaggerated? Or was she just being honest?

The Supreme Power of Nature

" Such was the sympathy of Nature- that wild, heathen Nature of the forest, never subjugated by human law, nor illuminated by higher truth....Love whether newly born, or aroused from a deathlike slumber, must always create a sunshine, filling the heart full of radiance, that overflows upon the outward world..... Had the forest still kept its gloom, it would have been bright in Hester's eyes, and bright in Arthur Dimmesdale" ( Hawthorne, 2005, p. 168).

What are your thoughts on Nature and how Humans beings perceive it? Do you think Nature is truly free from the hold of all Human laws?  Does Nature truly show colors of the spirit? Do you think that Nature could alter a persons mood? Do you think Hester and Dimmesdale's problems only truly matter to them and their community, not the World/Nature as a whole? Are our individual problems bigger than Nature? Do they truly affect the World, or our World?

Pearl and Dimmesdale

"I see the child," observed the minister. "Yonder she is, standing in a streak of sunshine, a good way off, on the other side of the brook. So thou thinkest the child will love me?" (Hawthorne, 2005, pg. 140).

What reaction do you all think that Pearl will have? Will she accept or reject him?

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A Coward?

We all seem to be calling Dimmesdale a coward and that he should just tell everyone and get it over with. However put yourself in his shoes. If you had a secret, such as his, would you tell everyone that you did something horrible? In a community such as theirs, the role he plays in this community.

Pointing Fingers

Who or what do you think is to blame for Dimmesdale's predicament?  Hester, the Puritan community, Chillingworth or himself? Or do you think everyone had a part to play?

Dimmesdale's Guilt

Taking it as though everyone read chapter 17, The Pastor and His Parishioner, What do you guys think of Hester's plan? Do you believe that it will benefit Dimmesdale, Hester, and Pearl if they leave? What do you think will happen if they do leave? Will Chillingworth keep their secret?

Why on the heart?

"To Hester's eye, the Reverend Mr. Dimmesdale exhibited no symptom of positive vivacious suffering, except that, as little Pearl had remarked, he kept his hand over his heart" (Hawthorne, 2005, p.129).

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Thinking about this quote, why do you suppose that Mr. Dimmesdale's scarlet letter is placed on his heart? What is emblematic of the heart? Explain.

Guilt, Death, or Confession?

“His form grew emaciated; his voice, though still rich and sweet, had a certain melancholy prophecy of decay in it; he was often observed, on any slight alarm or other sudden accident, to put his hand over his heart, with first a flush and then a paleness, indicative of pain” (Hawthorne, 2005, p. 82).

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As a recurring motif in The Grapes of Wrath, sickness frequently foreshadowed the suffrage or death of a character. In light of this, What do you think Dimmesdale’s sickness represents? Is this illness an indication of more than pent up guilt?

Scarlet letter

We as humans have such high standard for our leaders, parents, and authority that when they dont meet our standard we get hurt by it.

My favorite quote in Chapter 9 was when Roger Chillingworth and Reverend Dimmesdale were conversing and the Dimmesdale states,' " I could be well content, that my labors, and my sorrows, and my sins, and my pains, should shortly end with me, and what is earthly of them be buried in my grave, and the spiritual go with me to my eternal state, rather than that you should put your skill to the proof in my behalf" '(100). I find this statement quite strong because he truly knows that if he dies all his secrets and hidden pain will go with him and be terminated for good. What is your guy's opinion on this quote!

Pearl

In Chapter Six of The Scarlet Letter we get the to see Hester's child Pearl. We also see how much care Hester has for this child. " For so had Hester called her; as a name expressive of her aspect, which had nothing of the calm, white, unimpassioned lustre that would be indicated by the comparison. But she named the infant "Pearl", as being of great price,- purchased with all she had"( Hawthorne, 2005, p. 74). Everyone believes that this baby is a devils child because she was born out of sin, however, Hester does not believe so. She believes that something good came out of this all, the pain she went through , embarrassment, and being casted away from everyone: Pearl. I really enjoyed this chapter, it was so heartwarming and beautiful. Hawthorne used such vivid imagery, I felt as if I was with Hester watching Pearl grow up.   

Hester Hopeful Heart

" But sometimes, once in many days, or perchance in many months, she felt an eye-a human eye- upon the ignominious brand, that seemed to give her momentary relief, as if half of her agony were shared. The next instant, back it all rushed again, with a deeper throb of pain; for, in that brief interval, she had sinned anew. Had Hester sinned alone?" (Hawthorne, 2005, p. 72).

I know we discussed this quote in class, but I found it really intriguing. Hester wants to hold on to the belief that her lover will come and make the pain of staying back in the town worth it. If Hester's lover really cared about her, he would show himself. They both committed the sin. I admire Hester for refusing to tell on him, because she knows that if  he really wants the town to know about their affair, he would come out himself.  Hester is Ostracized by the town, for something she did not do alone, and her "lover" just stays in the shadows watching her get shamed by the townspeople.

Does he really care about her at all? What is keeping him from coming out? Do you think he is selfish for not coming out to be with his daughter and Hester? Do you guys think Hester is naive for staying in a town for a man who does not want to show himself to the world?  Please tell me what you think of the passage down below.

The Scarlet Letter

"In all her intercourse with society, however, there was nothing that made her feel as if she belonged to it. Every gesture, every word, and even the silence of those with whom she came in contact, implied, and often expressed, that she was banished, and as much alone as if she inhabited another sphere, or communicated with the common nature by other organs and senses than the rest of human kind. She stood apart from moral interests, yet close beside them, like a ghost that revisits the familiar fireside, and can no longer make itself seen or felt; no more smile with the household joy, nor mourn with the kindred sorrow; or, should it succeed in manifesting its forbidden sympathy, awakening only terror and horrible repugnance."

This quote speaks to me at a personal level. I choose this quote because I feel we can relate to Hester Prynne by how she still feels outcast-ed even after being released from jail and by how much she's started talking again to the people. Like no matter how much she interacts with society she still feels unwelcome, even to people whom she's never met.
Which I ask you guys: How you ever felt you've never belonged in a certain place? Even if you've been there for years or a couple of days. Or! Even around a group of people.

The Scarlet Leter (Chapter's 4 & 5 reading)

Assuming that you already read Chapter's 4 & 5, what are your initial thoughts on the plot, and, if possible, make a couple predictions as to what might happen in the future.

The Scarlet Letter

"It may serve, let us hope, to symbolize some sweet moral blossom, that may be found along the track, or relieve the darkening close of a tale of human frailty and sorrow," ( Hawthrone, 1850, pg.46).

This quote/passage really stood out to me because as the criminals enter the prison the rose bush is the first thing they see reminding them that beauty and hope still exists. Do you guys agree or disagree? I'd love to hear your opinions/ thoughts!

Chapter 28

     In chapter 28, there's a passage that stood out to me. " 'Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, the one will lif' up his fellow, but woe to him that is alone when he falleth, for he hath not another to help him up.... Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm alone? And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him, and a three-fold cord is not quickly broken.' " (Steinbeck, 1939). This was something Casy would often preach about and ever since he died, it was stuck in Tom's head. It demonstrates that being alone is more difficult because there's no one there by your side to help you back up. So, having a strong bond with others is essential because they are there to support you. In other words, it basically meant that unity and cooperation is necessary in survival and it's displayed in the Joad family of how they all help and depend on each other. 

Transcendentalism

When I think of a transcendentalist I think of Jim Casy; Jim Casy was a man that changed his mind about his occupation. When we first met Casy we found out that he was once a preacher but he decided to stop because he no longer believed in what he once taught. Would Casy's decision to stop being a preacher be an example of transcendentalism?

Transcendentalism

Tom never understood Casy's theory about the oversoul but it's not until Casy's death that he comes to realize that unity is essential so that they can acquire equal rights. Is Tom's change of mind an example of transcendentalism?

I'd love to read your opinions and thoughts!

Final Thoughts On the Grapes of Wrath

Honestly, when we first we presented with this book, it looked highly boring and uninteresting completely. I read the first few Chapters thinking about how boring it was but, honestly, I think that I was just unknown to the metaphors and ideas behind the Chapters. After everyone started posting on the Blog site, I decided to read them and was shocked at what I had completely missed when reading those Chapters. After reading what they had to say, it made me re think about what I had already thought of the book. While I continued to read the book, I was trapped by its unexplainable imagery and themes. Reading the book became more of a desire to learn more about the story. What made the book even more interesting was the idea of how the book was structured to be. The Chapters (as we talked about in discussion) always switch from the Joad family to more of an overall view of what was occuring during that time. With that info, it made the book even more understanding because it gave insight with problems that were affecting people during that time. That's all I really have to say about The Grapes of Wrath but let me know what you guys thought about it! Did you think it was boring at first but was surprised to know it was interesting?

Chapter One

In chapter one I really enjoyed the deep use of descriptive words to describe the setting. The setting started off as a very vivid and easy going but as the rising action started approaching we see how everything gets twisted around. The dust storm seemed like a deadly disease that infected everything in its way. One of my favorite quotes in this passage is, "Dust hung like fog" (Steinbeck,1939,Para.10). This shows how strong and thick it was that it hanged in the air. Overall, this opening chapter gave out the main conflict of the story and pointed out how this was going to be Nature vs. Man type of conflict.

Chapter 27

The main conflict created for the cotton pickers is that once someone hears about a job opportunity, they tell their friends and they go on to tell their friends. Once they got to get the job everyone's been talking about there's already too many cotton pickers. The boss will either tell the cotton pickers there's no work available or they'll let them work but they lower the pay. Another conflict that arouses is the very low pay. The boss takes advantage of the cotton pickers because he knows they're desperate for work and won't find a job anywhere else. They over work and at the end of the day they get paid about 5 cents.

Chapter 27

The main conflict created for the cotton pickers is that once someone hears about a job opportunity, they tell their friends and they go on to tell their friends. Once they got to get the job everyone's been talking about there's already too many cotton pickers. The boss will either tell the cotton pickers there's no work available or they'll let them work but they lower the pay. Another conflict that arouses is the very low pay. The boss takes advantage of the cotton pickers because he knows they're desperate for work and won't find a job anywhere else. They over work and at the end of the day they get paid about 5 cents.

Chapter 27

The main conflict created for the cotton pickers is that once someone hears about a job opportunity, they tell their friends and they go on to tell their friends. Once they got to get the job everyone's been talking about there's already too many cotton pickers. The boss will either tell the cotton pickers there's no work available or they'll let them work but they lower the pay. Another conflict that arouses is the very low pay. The boss takes advantage of the cotton pickers because he knows they're desperate for work and won't find a job anywhere else. They over work and at the end of the day they get paid about 5 cents.

Chapter 27

The main conflict created for the cotton pickers is that once someone hears about a job opportunity, they tell their friends and they go on to tell their friends. Once they got to get the job everyone's been talking about there's already too many cotton pickers. The boss will either tell the cotton pickers there's no work available or they'll let them work but they lower the pay. Another conflict that arouses is the very low pay. The boss takes advantage of the cotton pickers because he knows they're desperate for work and won't find a job anywhere else. They over work and at the end of the day they get paid about 5 cents.

Chapter 30 The Ray of Hope that the book ends with

The ray of hope the chapter ends with is that Rose of Sharon will save the Old Man with her milk. The hysteric child will not lose his father. The Joads have also survived as a family. While they have lost many people along the way such as Noah, Tom, Grampa, they have stayed strong.  The Joads have grown a lot throughout the book. Overall, as a reader, I feel like the main ray of hope is that the Joads will survive every other tragic thing that happens to them in California and one day get their white house with a picket fence.

What did you guys think the Ray of Hope the book ended with was? Please comment down below.

Ma's Toughness

DO NOT READ IF YOU HAVEN'T READ CHAPTER 15 AND FORWARD

Um, this isn't really going to be as formal as I've written before, just a summary of my thoughts on Ma and how strong of a character she was.

So, throughout the book, it said that Ma was what held the family together. Without her, the family function would crumble and cease to exist. We saw Ma's willingness to stand up for her family in Chapter 15, when the Wilson's car, driven by all, broke down. Tom said he'd stay behind to fix it, and he'd meet the family once they had made it to California.
Even after all the men had agreed, she refused, and even threatened to hit dad, and anyone who got in her way of keeping her family together. This may seem as Ma just being stubborn, but I thought it was incredibly brave of her since she stood up to her husband--the head of the family.
She didn't let her position in the family hierarchy--or in society--get in her way. She defied the rules of society; she was a woman, she had no say.

I like the fact that even Pa acknowledge Ma's power in the family. In chapter 28, he says, "Funny! Woman takin' over the fambly. Woman sayin' we'll do this here, an' we'll go there. An' I don't even care," (Steinbeck, 1939, 291).

I just really respected the fact that Ma was strong, and she didn't let anything stand in her way to secure her family's safety--not her husband, not society.

Chapter 30

Just a warning for those who have not finished the book yet this post will contain spoilers!

The Joads kindness throughout the book was very respectable because even when they did not have much, they still helped others. The closing sequence of the book was very powerful because despite having lost her baby, Rose of Sharon offers her breast milk to a sick man in need of it. Although some might find this image disturbing, I find it to be very honorable and kind.

Let me know what you guys found powerful in this chapter. Did I miss anything? Anything to add? Please comment down below.

Jim Casy as a Christ-figure

Ever since Jim Casy went to jail for Tom, he has been symbolized as a Christ-figure and in this chapter, he has secured his position as a Christ-figure. Just like Jesus Christ, Casy had his followers. “ Some a them fellas in the tank was drunks, but mostly they was there ’cause they stole stuff; an’ mostly it was stuff they needed an’ couldn’ get no other way,” (Steinbeck, 1939, pg.382). Jim Casy knew those robbers weren’t bad people because they did what they had to do in order to survive. Jim Casy realizes that group action is very effective and can help increase wages. Before Casy got hit by one of the vigilantes he tells them, “You don’ know what you’re a-doin’,” (Steinbeck, 1939, pg.386), this paraphrases Jesus’ dying words. Jim Casy died for his people which will make Tom continue the work that Casy has begun.

All feedback is appreciated and you are more than welcomed to add anything you think I missed.

Chapter 23 Finding Escape and Salvation

The migrants have several ways of being able to escape the reality that they live in. The migrants would gather around and tell each other stories to entertain themselves and to take their minds off of the situations they were in. They can also drink enough to the point that they do not remember the life they are living at the moment. Something that they would do to escape was listening to music and dancing, hours can be spent doing this. Church was a way for migrants to find salvation but can also be a way to focus their attention on God rather than their life. Although these activities are only temporarily and soon they will go back to reality. Those few minutes or hours that they spent trying to escape is better than nothing all.

Black Lives Matter and the Migrant People.

Hey guys, the quotes in this entry were taken from chapters 19 and 26, so if you haven't read those chapters I suggest you don't read this. I don't want to be responsible for giving away any part of the book that you may not have read.

So, throughout the Joad's and other migrant families' time in California, they have faced a large amount of oppression and hatred. They have been targeted by police for no reason other than that they are migrants. The police, and the state, do not want these people to settle down--they want to rid themselves of them because of a deeply burning hatred they have for the migrants. This is very similar to the ingrained anti-blackness we see in our society today, and though some may say other people of color cannot harbor anti-black feelings, that would be false. This shows that this is an issue deeply ingrained in all of society, not just the racial "elite."
However, there is one major difference between the migrant people and black people--the black community formed the Back Lives Matter (BLM) movement to raise awareness to the hatred. I thought the following quote really showed, in essence, why BLM was created. "Repression only works to strengthen and knit the repressed," (Steinbeck, 1939, p. 161). This is what BLM did after the death, and posthumous trial of Trayvon Martin--they banded together. The black community was faced with adversity, and they worked together to raise awareness for their cause.
"...you see how how quick a deputy sheriff shoves you along...some says [they shove us along because] if we set in one place we'd organize," (Steinbeck, 1939, p. 165). This is what the government in the novel was trying to avoid. They did not want people banded together, because together is when people's voices are heard. That is what Casy was trying to explain to Tom, in chapter 26. When they gave Casy/inmates bad food in jail, "One fell started yellin', an' nothin' happened....well, sir, then we all got to yellin'....Then somepin happened! They come a-runnin', and they give us some other stuff to eat," (Steinbeck, 1939, p. 262). Here, it's showing how if unified, people will be able to make change. They will be able to speak up--they will have strength.
However, even though the black community stood together, hundreds of black people are still killed at the hands of cops and vigilantes each year. They are wrongfully beaten and convicted--the problem isn't being solved, people are being silenced. "...only means to destroy revolt were considered, while the causes of revolt went on," (Steinbeck, 1939, p. 161). That's exactly what happened with the migrants.  Nothing was done to help them, they were just silenced while the problem perpetuated and grew bigger.
In the end, this shows that coming together, and fighting for the same cause gives people a voice--gives people strength. That's what BLM is doing. They are coming together after being treated much like the migrant people in Grapes of Wrath. They're wrongfully convicted and being beaten for no apparent reason; however, the only difference is the black community was able to form BLM, while the migrants stayed separated. Overall, these both these people want one thing--liberation from oppression.

Chapter 13 The Death of the Family Dog

    While the Joad's dog was exploring the road, it tragically gets run over by a car. The death of the dog foreshadows how the road to California will not be smooth and the family will face tragedy. The death of the dog also hints to how the family will lose people and items on the road to California. The dog's death also shows how no matter what tragedy the family faces on the road to California they will stay strong and keep moving.
    " I'm sorry, folks.... A dog jus' last no time near a highway.... I had three dogs run over a year. Don't keep none, no more.... Don't you folks worry none about it.... I'll take care of 'im.... Bury 'im out in the cornfield" (Steinbeck, 1939, p.131). This quote shows how the service man tried to comfort the family after their dog's death and told them he would bury their dog. This act by the service man shows that no matter how tough the road to California gets there will always be people who help the Joads. The car who ran over the dog not stopping to make sure everything was okay for the family, also foreshadows how there will be times when the family struggles and no one stops to helps them.

If you have any thoughts on what the death of the family dog foreshadowed, please leave a comment down below?

Chapter 10

What makes the Joad family so sympathetic is that although they are traveling to California and are scared, they remain optimistic and enthusiastic. We can all relate to this in some way or another. When venturing into the unknown, we all become frightened and at a certain point want to back out, such as Grampa in this chapter. However, we push forward whether it be through our own will or through force because the idea of challenging oneself or traversing unknown territory incites a form of excitement even if it is terrifying.

Please comment down below. I would really love to know what you guys think makes this family sympathetic or if you simply agree or disagree.

Chapter Twelve: Faith in Humanity

This chapter provides a preview of the Joads journey. Highway 66 stretches across the Mississippi and Bakersfield, California and since it is the main road for thousands of migrants, the Joads are most likely to encounter other families who are with creaky cars. Also, there are car salesmen and mechanics who try to rip them off and tell them they’re silly for coming to California because no opportunities will be given to them. “Well, try to get some freedom to do. Fella says you’re jus’ as free as you got jack to pay for it,” (Steinbeck, 1939, pg.120). This quote is saying that the farmers freedom do not count for much in California and that as long as their in America, the chances of them having a better life will stay as low as they were before. All these problems foreshadow what the Joads will face later on in the story and the random acts of kindness from strangers makes others have faith and courage to continue. It reinforces faith in humanity.

Chapter 11: Nature Reconquering

So chapter 11 has some passages that I really enjoyed; so this blog is going to be me just sharing them with you and explaining why I enjoyed them, or thought they were interesting/important.

"The cats crept through teh open doors and walked mewing through teh empty rooms. And they went back to the fields and were wild cats from then on, hunting gophers and field mice, and sleeping in ditches in the daytime," (Steinbeck, 1939, p. 78). So, in this quote we see a cat becoming once again wild. I think this signifies a rebirth of the domesticated animals. They reverted back to their natural selves in hopes of surviving; they had to make changes to their life style in order to survive. It is saying that when things change we must adapt. So the Joads will have to adapt to their new environment, by making changes to how they live their lives.

"The weeds sprang up in front of the doorstep, where they had not been allowed, and grass grew up through the porch boards," (Steinbeck, 1939, p.78). So in this quote the weeds are growing where they weren't allowed. They are reconquering what was once theirs. I liked how it was nature that drove away the tenants, and now it was nature taking back what the tenants had taken from it. It's sort of showing how strong nature is, and I really enjoyed that quote.

"The houses were vacant, and a vacant house falls apart quickly. Splits started up the sheathing from the rusted nails. A dust settled the floors....and on windy nights the doors banged, and ragged curtains fluttered in the broken windows," (Steinbeck, 1939, p. 78). This creates a very eerie mood. It's a decrepit house, in the night, that's creaking and billowing. I really liked the image this painted of the rundown houses, and it really just showed the toll that nature took on them.

I think a major part of this chapter was detailing nature and the power it has--how easily adaptable the creatures are, and how easily the environment can take back what was stolen from it.

Do you guys have any other passages you enjoyed from this chapter, or any differing ideas as to what these passages meant? Please comment down below!

Chapter 2 : The Lonesome Trucker

Chapter 2 begins near a roadside restaurant where the main character, Joad, is introduced, clean cut, and straight from prison. Joad catches sight of an Oklahoma transport truck and asks for a ride ignoring the sticker on the truck that says “No riders”. After being rejected by the driver, Joad quickly manipulates the driver to believe that he is being controlled by a corporation. The truck driver agrees to giving Joad a ride. In the truck, the driver examines Joad, questioning him and bickering on about past encounters he has had with other people. The drivers persistent need for conversation leads me to believe he is desperate for interaction, especially because truck drivers are constantly on the road alone. In addition, I believe the mention of bugs in chapter 2 has a connection to human struggle. For instance, the flies stuck on the screen of the restaurant door desperately trying to escape may represent farmers and the obstacle they face with their inability to grow crops.

Chapter 1 : Unification Through False Hope

  The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck takes place on the arid landscape of 1930’s Oklahoma, where a severe drought is absorbing both the vitality of the crops and its people. The long lasting drought and intense heat of the sun dramatically affected the spread of greenery. In the heat, the soil is is constantly pounded by plows, causing dirt to be carried off the ground and into the air. The lifted dirt then becomes a tornado of dust which consumes the Oklahoma stretch entirely. People living in these dusts must endure the hardship of watching their only form of income wither away and die. In this chapter, Steinbeck exemplifies unity in family. For example, the man of the house must stay strong in order to give the family hope, even though internally, he does not know what to do once all their crops are gone. As a result, the women know that things will be alright as long as their man is not ready to give up. Together, the families of the dust bowl must remain faithful in each other in order to survive in such dire conditions.  

Chapter 10 Note: Ma's Haven and The man who can't be moved

Quote/passage: "Yes, that's a good way. But I like to think how nice it's gonna be, maybe, in California . Never cold. An ' fruit ever'place, an' people just bein' in the nicest places, little white houses in among the orange trees. " ( Steinbeck, 1939, p. 91).

This quote from Ma in chapter shows how she really looks up to California providing the jobs and security they need. She likes to think that California will save the family from the state they are in. Ma sees California as the family's haven.Ma does not know what will occur on their journey to California, so she can only hope that California is good. Even after Tom tells Ma about how Fella from California told him that many folks in California are looking for work, Ma does not want to believe him. She thinks that the people would not send out brochures if there was not enough work. The whole family is pretty much looking up to California. They cannot stay in Oklahoma anymore. They want a nice place where they can work and live comfortable lives.

Later in this Chapter Grampa refuses to go California. "I ain't sayin' for you to stay.... You go right along Me- I'm stayin'. I give her a goin'-over all night mos'ly. This here's my country. I b'long here. An' I don't give a goddamn if they's orange an' grapes crowdin' a fella outa bed even... I ain't a-goin" (Steinbeck, 1939, p. 111). This quote shows how Grampa does not want to leave his home. He feels he belongs in Oklahoma, whether there is jobs in Oklahoma or not. Grampa has been in Oklahoma his whole life, and while California sounds nice, he does not want to leave the country where his memories are. This event is deep. Muley and Grampa are alike. They both do not want to leave their lives in the country behind them, even if it means letting go of their loved ones.

If you have any thoughts on this chapter, please leave a comment below.

Chapter 5: Fingers and Robot

So, this is really backtracking a lot, and in the days to come I will blog about later chapters, but I just wanted to share some passages that I really enjoyed from Chapter 5.

"Soft Fingers began to tap the sill of the car window, and hard fingers tightened on the restless drawing stick," (Steinbeck, 1939, p. 24).  I enjoyed this quote because it showed the uneasiness on both sides, that of the tenants, and of the owners/the owner's workers. They were both nervous about different things, yet they both revolved around the land. The tenants, on one hand, were scared because they'd have no place to go; on the other hand, the owners were scared because they felt like bad people--they were going against their morality. They wanted to be good people, but in doing their job they were forced to evict helpless tenants from the lands they worked on for generations. I also liked the fact that it showed how different their social classes were through the fingers. The tenants had hard, calloused fingers, while the owners had soft, supple fingers because of the lack of physical work. I enjoyed the fact that even though these people were of different social classes and were worried about different things, they were both still worried because of the land and the people on it.

The next passage I enjoyed is as follows. "The man sitting in the iron seat did not look like a man; gloved, goggled, rubber dust mask over nose and mouth, he was part of the Monster, a robot in the seat," (Steinbeck, 1939, p. 26). This quote I enjoyed because it was depicting the driver as non-human. He was a "robot." It was interesting, because I think since the tractor was destroying the homes of people, it was saying that anybody who'd purposefully do this isn't "good"--isn't human. This person had such little regard for human life, that he couldn't be sentient, he couldn't have feelings or emotions--he wasn't alive. He was a robot--a Pawn used by the corporations; he was being manipulated through money. He was giving up his humanity for three dollars a day.

If you had any passages or quotes you enjoyed please share them with me!

Chapter 9 The Contradiction of Burning the Past

Passage "How can we live without our lives? How will we know it's us without our past? No. Leave it. Burn it ."

    This passage is contradictory because the people are wondering how they can live without their past, yet they come to the conclusion of burning the past. They cannot hold on to their old lives, by burning or destroying their memories from the past. I found this passage interesting because if someone lets go of their past by trying to destroying or burning all memories from it, they will not be completely free from the past. I feel that we must accept the past and acknowledge it before moving on. If someone wants to flip the chapter in their lives, they should reflect and learn from past before letting it go.
If you have any thoughts on this passage, feel free to comment.

Chapter 9

I really enjoyed this chapter. This isn't going to be analyzing really, but bear with me. So, in this chapter, the tenants are selling their goods for any price people are willing to pay. For example, when the tenant is selling the horses he says, "Oh, take 'em...you're buying a little girl plaiting the forelocks, taking off her hair ribbons to make bows, standing back, head cocked, rubbing soft noses with her cheek," (Steinbeck, p. 58, 1939).

This quote really stood out to me, because a similar thing happened. When my family moved, we had to sell everything that wasn't "essential." We had this very comfortable rocking chair. It was my favorite to sit on. On that chair, my mom taught me how to count every night before I went to kindergarten. I remember one night being able to count up to 300 all by myself, and my mom was very happy and congratulated me; this made me feel very proud! So, when the time came to move, and we sold the chair, I was sad, because of all of the fun and happy memories I had created because of it.

I think that's what this chapter was about. That everything we own, and have memories about, become part of us. They hold our ideas, our thoughts, a part of our lives. So when they had to get rid of all their belongings, they were getting rid of all of their cherished memories. They were leaving behind their own lives. They were leaving behind themselves.

Chapter 8 The Reunion

In chapter 8, Tom and Jim Casy finally reach Uncle John's house. Before they arrived to John's house Tom was telling Jim Casy John's story. His story was that once he was married to a young women but she passed away. Tom said he was a lonely man and that after her death he kept to himself. John blamed himself for her death because when his wife was complaining about the pain from her stomachache, he just told her that she ate too much and to take some painkillers. Surely she died the next day around four. John had changed and learned from her death. "Made a damn nuisance of himself. Ever'time one of us kids got worms or a gutache Uncle John brings a doctor out"
(Steinbeck, 1939, p. 69).  This quote shows that John became too cautious and protective because he didn't want the same thing to happen again to one of the kids. Tom was telling Jim that John was getting meaner every year but he was still a good man. Tom said that John would give away a lot of his things but he was still unhappy.

When they arrived to the house, the first person Tom saw was his dad fixing the truck for the trip to California. He went up to his dad but his dad didn't notice it was him. A short while later Tom's dad turned to him and realized it was his son. After seeing his dad they went to see his mother who was cooking inside. They had come up with a plan to surprise her, it was to act as if Tom and Jim Casy were strangers who were walking on the road and were wondering if they could have something to eat. After his mother realized it was him they did what anyone would do when seeing someone after four years. Tom's dad went into the barn to tell Tom's grandparents and Noah that Tom was back. His grandpa was the third to greet him, then his grandma, and lastly his brother Noah. At the end of the chapter his oldest brother came back from "squirtin' aroun'". Al and Tomm were the last ones in this chapter to come together.

Chapter Seven

The purpose of this chapter was to give a metaphorical example of the baffled people, including the Joads, that are in need of a car. “People are wandering in, bewildered, needing a car.” ( Steinbeck, 1939, pg.64). This quote demonstrates the desperate need of a car which gives cruel salesmen the perfect opportunity to take advantage of the sharecroppers. The sharecroppers are aware of the poor conditions the cars are in but have no choice but take it. The car salesman talks in a staccato rhythm making him seem in control. There is confidence in the salesman because of his fast talking and repetition. Those bewildered represent the Joads and the other families who aren’t sure what their future holds. To include, the salesman is a metaphor for the people that will take advantage of the Joads as they travel to California.

Chapter 6 The Joads prepare to go to California

In chapter 6 , Tom and Jim Casy come across Muley Graves. Muley tells Tom that his family home got demolished by the Willy Freeley's Tractor , and now they are staying at Uncle John's house. Muley also tells Tom that his family is preparing to go to California. "Well, they been choppin' cotton, all even the kids an' your grampa.... Gettin' money together so they can shove on west.... Gonna buy a car and shove on west where it's easy livin'" (Steinbeck, 1939, p. 46). This quote shows how Tom's family is preparing to go to California by chopping up cotton for money. The whole family is working so they can afford a car, and go west in two weeks. The family believe that by going west they will find jobs and have easier lives. Some conflicts that may arise if all the families are moving to California is the jobs might run out.There might not be enough opportunities for the number of families going to California.

Chapter Six

In chapter six, Tom tells Muley that in McAlester they treated him like every other place, just mind your own business and you'll be alright. Tom later states that if you had done something that you were ashamed of you would think about in prison, however he wasn't ashamed of killing Herb Turnbull. He tells Muley that if he were in a  predicament , like he was when he killed Herb,  he wouldn't hesitate to kill again. This foreshadows that if Tom is provoked, he would act maliciously.

Chapter 4: Casey for the People

In Chapter four we are introduced to reverend Jim Casey. As he talks to Tom, we begin to discover details about his life as a preacher. As Casey states, he does this because the people expect him to, as the following quote shows. "When folk set out food I give 'em grace, but my heart ain't in it. I only do it 'cause they expect it," (Steinbeck, 1939, p. 14).

Then, Casey tells Tom a story. "I'd take one of them girls out in the grass an' I'd lay with her....Then I'd feel bad, and I'd pray and pray, but it didn't do no good. Come the next time I'd do it again. Figgered...i was a damn ol' hypocrite," (Steinbeck, 1939, p. 15). This quote shows that Casey was using his power as a "Man of God" to  do evil, or wrong deeds. He felt hypocritical because he was preaching about morals/virtue, but he himself had sinful ideas and committed sinful actions. Casey wanted to be a good person because he was supposed to teach them right from wrong--he was responsible for them--but he was only human, and like everyone, he wasn't infallible. He felt remorse for abusing his position, because he wanted--needed--to be a good person, for he had a responsibility to the people. 

"There's me with all them people's souls in my han'--an' ever time, I lay with one of them girls.' He looked at Joad and his face looked helpless. His expression asked for help," (Steinbeck, 1939, p. 16). Here, it shows the emotional toll this took on Casey. He felt sick. He wasn't helping anybody, but he was still making it harder on himself, and even though he was trying to help others find the path of virtue, he himself was straying from it, and needed redirection. He felt he had a duty to service these people, to make them happy. 

"[I asked myself,] Don't you love Jesus?'...No, I don't know anyone name' Jesus...I only love people. An' sometimes I love 'em fit to bust, an' I want to make 'em happy, so I been preachin' somepin' I thought would make 'em happy," (Steinbeck, 1939, p. 16). Here, Casey explicitly states he preaches to make people happy, not because he believes in the word of the Lord. This shows that he is a very compassionate person, and cares for the people in his community. Not only did he sacrifice his own happiness, but his own beliefs; he never said he was religious himself, but he thought it would make people happy and safe, so he preached it anyway. He turned his back on himself, to give a helping hand to others.

 Do you agree, or disagree? Do you have anything to add? I'd love to hear your ideas! 

The Dust Bowl

   The setting takes place in Oklahoma (1931-1939). John Steinbeck described the skies as though they were dark, with thick clouds full of dust. Many dust storms approached and killed the youth of the crops being grown such as corn. Many weeds grew and spread throughout the crops killing them also. Oklahoma was doomed around that time. Farmers lost their crops and their land because of the drought, many families were concerned about their well beings as the population of Oklahoma started to decrease. The air was so polluted that the families had to tie handkerchiefs over their noses and put goggles on to protect their eyes. This made many people sit down and think about what they would do from there and what would be their next move to make their economy better. 

   Agree? Or disagree? Anything I need to add? Feel free to leave any comments below to help :)

Chapter 2: Tom Joad's charcter Traits through the Trucker's eyes

As chapter two starts, we are introduced  to the lone trucker. The trucker gets acquainted  with Tom Joads, after Joads asked him for a ride. The Trucker hesitantly agrees to Tom's request. The attentive Trucker first notices Tom's new clothes and shoes. As noted through this quote on page 8, " His eyes began at the new cap, moved down the new clothes to the new shoes". The driver is very suspicious of where Tom got his fresh clothes and his shoes. Through the trucker inquiries, we learn Tom's father is a farmer who owns forty acres of land. We also learn Tom and his dad have not communicated in a long time. On Page 9 the trucker says, ".... I seen your hands.... Been swingin' a pick or an ax or sledge....that shines up your hands....". This quote shows how Tom has very strong arms, and he has been lifting heavy material for a long period of time.

We also learn Through the Trucker's questioning that Tom's dad is named Tom Joad. The trucker feels that Tom is taciturn. " He stopped, feeling lonely after a long speech.... His secret eyes turned on his passenger.... Joad remained silent.... nervously the driver tried to force him into participation." (Steinbeck, 1939, p.10). This quote shows that the tom is a quiet individual. Through this quote, it is acquired that the Trucker gets very lonely on the Job. As their ride continues, we learn that Tom also drinks and smokes. The Trucker's interminable questioning brings out Tom's dark side, showing that Tom does not like being pestered. By the end of the Chapter, the, Tom reveals to the trucker that he has  been in a State Penitentiary for the past four years for committing murder. This revelations shows how forthright Tom is.

Thank you for reading my post, If you have you agree or disagree with the way Tom's character is described, please comment down below. If you have any extra information on the characterization of Tom, feel free to comment below. 

Chapter 1: Life and Corn

Hello everybody! This is my first post, so please bear with me!

Setting

In the first chapter, it opens with the description of the earth, and the tole the lack of rain is taking on the land. Steinbeck speaks of the red country and gray country; as the rain ceases to pour, the world turns pale, colorless, and overall dull. The red country became a pinker color, and the gray country became a whiter color.  I thought this symbolized the fact that the earth couldn't take the beating of the weather for much longer; it would soon become lifeless and uninhabitable--that it was losing the fight against the harsh climate. 

Corn

Steinbeck also tells of the earth drying, crusting, and cracking, as the rains continue to hide, and how the dust begins to take their place; moreover, the dust begins to harm the crops that the farmers were growing. "The wind raced faster over the land...the corn fought the wind with its weakened leaves until the roots were freed by the prying winds," (page 4). This quote demonstrates the effect that the wind and dust had on the crops, and the environment overall. The corn, a big cash crop, was a major part of farming in Oklahoma, so the fact that it was dying was, in a way, showing how difficult survival would be for every living thing that was part of this ecosystem--both human and nonhuman. 

The farmers would not be able to make a living for they had no crops to sell or eat, and most of the wildlife would have to adapt to a dryer, less luscious state of life. This was my interpretation of what the corn symbolized. Do you agree, or disagree? I would love to hear your interpretations! 

Welcome, Honors Students!

Students,

This is where you will be having discussions on the texts read in class. Bring in outside resources, make connections, and challenge each other's ideas! You should be commenting more than posting. Proofread your writing before publishing. Check this site on a regular basis, especially if you created a Post. You will want to engage in the discussions about what you wrote. Respond. Learn from one another. Question. Also, take a look at what alumni wrote in the archives.

Please title posts about The Grapes of Wrath by chapter #. This is so that you won't be "giving away" anything and spoiling suspense. Do not read posts for chapters that you have not yet read!

Have fun and be respectful. Happy Summer Reading!