"The Winter of Our Discontent" by John Steinbeck follows the story of Ethan Allen Hawley, a man who comes from a once prosperous family that has fallen on hard times. As a grocery store clerk, Ethan struggles with maintaining his integrity while his family longs for their former wealth. The novel delves into Ethan's internal conflict as he faces societal pressures and gradually compromises his morals to gain financial success. Steinbeck's writing style intricately explores the quotidian moments of Ethan's life, highlighting the themes of morality, integrity, and the consequences of one's choices on family and society.

Characters:

The characters are intricately developed, with Ethan at the center representing moral struggle against societal expectations.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style features a blend of third and first-person perspectives, emphasizing character depth and moral introspection.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot focuses on Ethan Hawley's struggle with his family's lost fortune and his moral decline as he faces societal and familial pressures.

Setting:

Set in a decaying New England town in the 1960s, the setting underscores the themes of moral decay and disillusionment.

Pacing:

The pacing is uneven, with a slow start that transitions to a more dynamic narrative as the story progresses.

“Oh! You’re just silly again. Here’s your list.” She tucked it in his breast pocket. “Seems like a lot. But it’s Easter weekend, don’t forget—and two dozen eggs, don’t forget. You’re going to be late....

Notes:

The Winter of Our Discontent was John Steinbeck's last completed novel, published in 1961.

It explores the themes of moral decay and the American Dream during a time of perceived prosperity in America.

The protagonist, Ethan Allen Hawley, belongs to a family that once held wealth and prestige but has fallen into financial hardship.

Ethan struggles with his integrity as he faces pressure from his family and society to regain their lost status and wealth.

The novel contrasts Ethan's scrupulous honesty with the morally ambiguous choices he considers to improve his family's situation.

Steinbeck shifts between third and first person narration, offering a unique perspective on Ethan's internal conflict.

The book suggests a correlation between personal moral choices and broader societal issues, drawing attention to the erosion of ethical standards in the 1960s.

Some readers find Ethan's character relatable, while others see him as morally flawed and difficult to sympathize with.

The story reflects Steinbeck's critique of capitalist values and the lengths people go to achieve material success.

Despite mixed reviews, the novel has gained recognition for its exploration of human nature and its social commentary.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Triggers may include themes of moral corruption, racial prejudice, suicide contemplation, and familial dysfunction.

From The Publisher:

The final novel of one of America's most beloved writers-a tale of degeneration, corruption, and spiritual crisis

Ratings (11)

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Want To Read (8)
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1 comment(s)

ehanut203

Did Not Like

4 months

This books seems like the opposite of Chopin's "The Awakening." Am I wrong?

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About the Author:

John Steinbeck, born in Salinas, California, in 1902, grew up in a fertile agricultural valley, about 25 miles from the Pacific Coast. Both the valley and the coast would serve as settings for some of his best fiction. In 1919…

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The Winter of Our Discontent

John Steinbeck