Symbolism In John Steinbeck's 'The Chrysanthemums'

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John Steinbeck’s “The Chrysanthemum” uses the garden to serve as a symbol of Elisa’s longing for self-fulfillment amid societal constraints. Through her dedication to the care of her beloved chrysanthemum plants, Elisa discovers a semblance of self-rule and liberty, transcending the prescribed roles of domesticity. Furthermore, the garden’s spatial confinement within the Salinas Valley symbolizes Elisa’s longing to break the suffocating monotonousness of her domestic life. Elisa’s desire for societal freedom is revealed by the way that the garden functions as a symbol of autonomy and independence for her. The chrysanthemum plants in her garden are the first symbolic representation of Elisa’s desire for societal freedom. While she feels unfulfilled …show more content…

Elisa uses her “planter’s hands” and a strong work ethic to go beyond the limitations of gender expectations (238). Dedicating time daily to the garden reveals her yearning to showcase her skill and gain respect for her contribution as a woman in society. Secondly, Elisa’s commitment to the chrysanthemums supports her demand for respect for her individuality in a society that limits women’s roles to being homemakers. Working with the chrysanthemums, Elisa feels empowered and in control. Steinbeck illustrates that “The chrysanthemum stems seemed too small and easy for her energy” hinting that Elisa formed a connection to nature that enlivened her character. “The plants are strong and lively, and Elisa tries to identify with them as such. She remains motivated to care for the plants since she becomes one with the plants when she tends to them. Elisa’s act of identifying herself with the garden reveals that she wants to achieve liberation and broaden her life’s limited range. Lastly, the confinement of the chrysanthemums inside the garden also revealed Elisa’s desire for societal freedom. The garden’s location in the Salinas Valley leaves Elisa disconnected from the outside

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