I read this book many years ago, though I was in my mid twenties at least when I did so. I also read the dramatic version which did very well. Ditto Tobacco Road. I never felt the characters were to be admired, but I found it, as you might find a little oasis in a desert, delightful, but very strange. It blooms with strange flowers. As such it has a beauty that you would reject if written large. I think Steinbeck's world view hard to accept in Grapes of Wrath, but in these short little slices of life in Bohemia quite entrancing. I liked that quote from the book. What we believe in and what actually goes on in society are quite different. Children are told never to lie and always tell the truth. In home and school children will be punished more harshly for denying they did something than they would be if they admitted their guilt. Try that in a court room. Our system rewards liars and cheaters quite often, and frequently punishes those who naively think that they are still in school and will be punished more lightly when they tell the truth. Nice review.
Andy thanks for sharing your thoughts, particularly your reflection on journal notes from your first read of Cannery Row in the 70's. I'm not a great reader of novels, but I enjoy the odd biography. I've just read Cannery Row for the first time as a 50 year old. I enjoyed how thoroughly he painted the image of characters, to the point that I become invested in their interactions and the outcome of the planned parties. The lack of a purposeful plot and resolution was somewhat unsatisfying (but I appreciate it is more of a snapshot of time and place). What was the significance of the poem read by Doc at the party? Was it just to highlight what the party masked for Doc and others? To contrast the party with the reality of their lot and bring perspective to the reader amid revelry. I loved the quote your shared, 'It has always seemed strange to me, the things we admire in men; kindness and generosity, openeness, honesty...' I might read another book and visit another of your reviews. Thanks.
Thanks for such a detailed and encouraging reply, Derek. I’m sorry that I missed your comment and have only just found it. I’m pleased too that my review led you to reading the book.
I read this book many years ago, though I was in my mid twenties at least when I did so. I also read the dramatic version which did very well. Ditto Tobacco Road. I never felt the characters were to be admired, but I found it, as you might find a little oasis in a desert, delightful, but very strange. It blooms with strange flowers. As such it has a beauty that you would reject if written large. I think Steinbeck's world view hard to accept in Grapes of Wrath, but in these short little slices of life in Bohemia quite entrancing. I liked that quote from the book. What we believe in and what actually goes on in society are quite different. Children are told never to lie and always tell the truth. In home and school children will be punished more harshly for denying they did something than they would be if they admitted their guilt. Try that in a court room. Our system rewards liars and cheaters quite often, and frequently punishes those who naively think that they are still in school and will be punished more lightly when they tell the truth. Nice review.
Thank you - and for your interesting comments
Andy thanks for sharing your thoughts, particularly your reflection on journal notes from your first read of Cannery Row in the 70's.
I'm not a great reader of novels, but I enjoy the odd biography.
I've just read Cannery Row for the first time as a 50 year old.
I enjoyed how thoroughly he painted the image of characters, to the point that I become invested in their interactions and the outcome of the planned parties.
The lack of a purposeful plot and resolution was somewhat unsatisfying (but I appreciate it is more of a snapshot of time and place).
What was the significance of the poem read by Doc at the party? Was it just to highlight what the party masked for Doc and others? To contrast the party with the reality of their lot and bring perspective to the reader amid revelry.
I loved the quote your shared, 'It has always seemed strange to me, the things we admire in men; kindness and generosity, openeness, honesty...'
I might read another book and visit another of your reviews. Thanks.
Thanks for such a detailed and encouraging reply, Derek. I’m sorry that I missed your comment and have only just found it. I’m pleased too that my review led you to reading the book.