The book is what made me join this sub reddit. I like seeing others interpretations on this book. It thought it was overall a good read/ listen. John Steinbeck is like listening to your grandfather tell a story. He spends so much time talking about the Salinas scenery. That almost drew me away from the book, but I’m glad I stuck it out.

I’m very intrigued by Adam especially. Although it’s a Cain and Abel type story, I was pleasantly surprised at how much it went into Adam’s flaws. As easy as it is to call out Cyrus, Charles, Cal and Cathy for their wrongs, Adam’s mistakes also had profound consequences.

He had many opportunities to increase his wealth and influence, but didn’t take them. He was not industrious whatsoever. It’s also seemed like he wasn’t thinking about a legacy for his family. Shortsighted! That’s the word. One bad decision nearly wiped him out financially as a result.

Adam ignored the evil in Cathy which resulted in him being shot and brokenhearted and unable to be an adequate father to their children. He then made the fatal mistake of lying about Cathy being dead. This helped to set in motion the death of Aron and the death of himself by extension. I’d say Cathy as well, but she was already borderline.

I don’t think Adam was a bad character. He made a lot of terrible decisions. It warmed my heart that the last decision he ever made was probably the best one.

I’d like to know your thoughts

Edit: spelling