The Oversoul

Several times throughout the novel, Jim Casy primarily, but other characters as well, suggest the concept that mankind is more successful when they act as if they are connected by one great "soul", as opposed to being individuals only looking out for themselves.  Through the preacher's experiences, he has learned from man's mistakes and failures, including his own, and comes to the conclusion that there is more power in "we" than "me".

Consider how Casy's vision of this "oversoul" applies to our course's focus on family, and how we define that term. In The Grapes of Wrath, there are many examples of blood relatives struggling together through hard times, but there are also people who prefer to fend for themselves. Furthermore, there are numerous examples of bonds forming between humans who are not biologically connected, but are sharing in a common experience that tests their ability to adapt to new circumstances.

As a class, discuss what Steinbeck's novel suggests about family, human connections, and survival of the fittest. Have society's views and practices changed over the past century in relation to the novel's setting and characters' beliefs? Provide specific details from the text and beyond to demonstrate your understanding and generate conversation. 

(Make one substantial comment on this post, and at least two short responses to your classmates' comments. See rubric for specific requirements.)

Woody Guthrie

The depression had a drastic influence on art and music during that time period.  Song writers like Woody Guthrie became the voices of the common people, compiling lyrics that became narratives about the struggles against injustice, nature, and each other.  After Steinbeck's The Grapes of Wrath was published, Guthrie wrote a poetic version of the story simply called "Tom Joad". Start to finish, it explains the journey of the Joads and the lessons they learn about people along the way.

"They stood on a mountain and they looked to the west,
And it looked like the promised land.
That bright green valley with a river running through, 
There was work for every single hand, they thought,
There was work for every single hand." (Guthrie, 1940)

Throughout history, poets and lyricists have documented the highs and lows of their fellow man. Songs can sometimes have a way a reaching a wider audience than a novel might.  Guthrie's music also echoed the social battles and call for change during his time.  The folk music of the depression greatly influenced song writers to spread their opinions in this manner. <www.woodyguthrie.org>

"Nobody living can ever stop me, 
As I go walking that freedom highway; 
Nobody living can ever make me turn back 
This land was made for you and me." (Guthrie, 1940)

Considering all of the social uprisings and subsequent changes in society since the setting of The Grapes of Wrath, what other issues or eras have influenced popular music?  From Bob Dylan to Madonna, and U2 to Rachel Platten, "fight songs" continue to inspire audiences around the world.  As a class, discuss the range of musical lyrics that you feel have affected your generation, whether directly through the current media, or via an older generation's influence on you.
(Make one substantial comment on this post, and at least two short responses to your classmates' comments. See rubric for specific requirements.)