The Unattainable Dream: Steinbeck's Critique of the American Dream

The American Dream, a concept synonymous with wealth, happiness, and freedom, has drawn countless immigrants to the shores of America, lured by the promise of a better life. However, John Steinbeck's exploration of this dream in his timeless novels, "Of Mice and Men" and "The Grapes of Wrath," reveals a harsh reality – the American Dream, for many, is an elusive mirage that remains just out of reach. In this essay, we will delve deeper into Steinbeck's critique, examining the settings, symbolization, and characters that contribute to his portrayal of the unattainable dream.

Setting the Stage: California in the 1930s

Steinbeck strategically uses settings as a canvas to paint the backdrop of the unattainable American Dream. Both narratives unfold against the harsh reality of California in the 1930s, a time marked by economic hardship and social upheaval. In "Of Mice and Men," the story plays out on a ranch, a microcosm of dreams where every worker yearns for a better life, yet none succeed in grasping it.

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Characters like Curley's wife, with dreams of stardom, and Candy, envisioning a farm with Lennie and George, exemplify the futility of these dreams. Despite aspirations, the harsh reality of the ranch pushes them into a cycle of labor and temporary pleasure, devoid of lasting fulfillment.

Similarly, "The Grapes of Wrath" unveils intricately detailed settings, such as a roadside camp, magnifying the stark contrast between the dream and the harsh reality. The squalid living conditions in the camp underscore the gaping disparity between the idyllic lifestyle promised by the American Dream and the gritty existence faced by many during that era.

Delving deeper into the setting of "Of Mice and Men," Steinbeck's portrayal of the ranch becomes a metaphor for the impossibility of the American Dream. It serves as a haven for those who have relinquished their dreams, toiling through the week only to spend their meager earnings on fleeting pleasures. George, while exciting Lennie with their vision of a future home and land, provides insight into the harsh reality of ranch life. "They come to a ranch an' work up a stake, and then they go into town and blow their stake... They ain't got nothing to look ahead to," he states, emphasizing the perpetual cycle of fleeting contentment that the ranch workers endure (13-14).

Meanwhile, the intricate settings in "The Grapes of Wrath" offer a profound insight into the gap between the dream and reality. Describing a roadside camp, Steinbeck meticulously paints a picture of disorder, with little gray tents, shacks, and scattered cars, portraying a stark contrast to the comfortable lifestyle promised by the American Dream. This vivid portrayal reinforces the idea that for many, the dream is nothing more than an illusion.

Symbols of Despair: Breaking the Dream

Symbolization becomes a powerful tool in Steinbeck's hands, serving as a lens through which the unattainability of the American Dream is revealed. In "Of Mice and Men," Curley's wife becomes the embodiment of shattered dreams as she confides in Lennie about her broken lifelong dream of becoming a movie star. Her unfulfilled aspirations mirror the countless individuals who are forced to settle for less than the idealized American Dream.

In "The Grapes of Wrath," the symbolism takes a poignant turn with the stillborn baby born to Rose of Sharon. This baby, representing hope, happiness, and a fresh start associated with the American Dream, succumbs to the harsh realities of life. When Ma, in a moment of despair, declares, "'They ain't no baby. They never was no baby. We was wrong'" (446), it marks the death of the ideals associated with the dream. The symbolism of the stillborn baby becomes a powerful metaphor for the unattainability of the American Dream, leaving characters and readers alike grappling with the harsh reality.

Character Realities: Dreams Shattered

Characters in Steinbeck's novels vividly illustrate the elusive nature of the dream. In "Of Mice and Men," George and Lennie's pursuit of a house on a farm takes a tragic turn when Lennie's actions lead to the dream's demise. Despite their efforts, the dream slips through their fingers, emphasizing the fragility of dreams in the face of harsh realities.

Similarly, the Joad family in "The Grapes of Wrath" embarks on a journey to find work and settle down in California, hoping to achieve their version of the American Dream. However, the scarcity of work and the challenges they face shatter their dreams. As a flood invades their makeshift home, threatening to destroy the little property they own, the family's crushed dreams become palpable. The image of the family huddled on platforms, silent and fretful, as the flood engulfs their dreams, reinforces the notion that the American Dream is far from attainable for many.

Modern Parallels: Unattainable Goals in Contemporary Society

Steinbeck's critique of the American Dream extends beyond the pages of his novels to resonate with contemporary society. Even today, people strive for goals that prove to be ultimately unachievable. The prevailing societal narrative encourages individuals, especially children, to believe they can achieve anything. However, as Steinbeck suggests, this can lead to disappointment and dissatisfaction, hindering individuals from pursuing more realistic and fulfilling dreams.

As society continues to propagate the idea that anyone can become a famous actor, talented singer, or professional athlete, the harsh reality remains that these careers demand not only hard work but also an element of luck and skill. Aiming for unattainable goals, as depicted in Steinbeck's novels, only leaves the dreamer disappointed and dissatisfied, holding them back from obtaining more realistic and fulfilling dreams.

Conclusion: A Sobering Reflection on Dreams

In conclusion, John Steinbeck's masterful storytelling in "Of Mice and Men" and "The Grapes of Wrath" unveils the inherent impossibility of the American Dream. The settings, symbolization, and characters collectively convey a powerful message about the disparity between the dream and the harsh realities faced by those who chase it. As readers, we are left with a sobering reflection on the nature of dreams and the importance of pursuing goals that are grounded in reality.