Theme Of Reality In The Grapes Of Wrath

While many people may have good intentions, reality is harsh and does not always work in the favour of those who wish to do good. This jarring reality causes for unexpected outcomes that can take anyone by surprise. In the novel The Grapes of Wrath, sticking together and being there for one another is a key objective of the Joad’s. Reality ends up forcing its way in, illustrating that despite one’s ambitions, reality can deter one’s goals. To begin, the novel highlights how important family is to the Joad’s. The Joad’s are a farming family, who have lived on their farm land for as long as many of them can remember. Unfortunately due to the Great Depression, the Landowners are forced to make the majority of the families living on their land leave, including the Joad’s The novel begins

Shortly after they begin their journey, Granpa falls ill and evidently dies. “‘He didn’ suffer none. Not after this mornin’. He’s just stayin’ with the lan’” (Steinbeck 146). As a result, the family is shaken and but faces their sorrow and forges ahead. Further along, Noah Joad decides to abandon his family to live a simpler life along the riverbed where they stopped to rest. Tom tries to stop him, but Noah no longer wanted the pressure of travelling any longer. “And he watched Noah drowning smaller on the edge of the river, until he disappeared into the willow at last.” (Steinbeck 209). Furthermore, Granma Joad follows suit of her husband a few days after, and passes. “‘Well she was ol’. Guess her time was up’ Al said, ‘ Ever’body got to die.’” (Steinbeck 229). The Joads’ goals of staying together rapidly fall apart as they travel to California, some leaving through their own free will, and others not being strong enough to make to journey. The harsh realities of the world hits the Joad’s hard, notwithstanding of their best