This, I believe, applies to the idea of what is “American,” as well. Reading Travels With Charley made me overwhelmingly proud to be an American, yet at the same time all the more confused and if not two steps closer towards understanding my culture, then definitely two steps back.ĭefining “American” is like defining the horizon: you can observe it, you can make very accurate statements, you can constantly come closer to a solid definition, but to be frank the horizon is something too abstract to force into a tangible, understandable means. Being abroad, I’m constantly trying to explain aspects of American culture, or where exactly I’m from, or what specifically makes me American it’s always an impossible conversation. Specifically, because of his definition of “American” as something that can’t be defined.
His fall from innocence is one of Steinbeck’s most moving stories about the American dream.”Īfter having just finished Travels With Charley, I’m curious about Steinbeck’s take on the American dream. The summary in the back of the book is concise: “The diver Kino believes that his discovery of a beautiful pearl means the promise of a better life for his impoverished family. Besides being a gorgeous book (you know, one of those that just feels like baby skin in your hands), it’s also promoted by the Great Books Foundation that encourages discussion of classics. The version I read was published by Penguin Books as part of the John Steinbeck Centennial Edition set. The Pearl is a short story (88 pages in my version), perfect for a vacation. Last night, I picked up The Pearl, and I just finished it about ten minutes ago. I’m always eager to read more of his work, and was probably the only kid in my sophomore English Lit class that was stoked to read The Grapes of Wrath.
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