Imagery in "The Chrysanthemums"

Paper Summary:

The paper analyzes the use of nature, clouds, fog and the central image of the flowers in "The Chrysanthemums" and how they serve to convey the book's central theme about the search for identity and meaning. The paper examines the main character in the story, Elisa Allen, and shows how the imagery portrays her lack of personal fulfillment.

From the Paper:

"John Steinbeck's "The Chrysanthemums" which was published in 1938, is usually described as a story about an unhappy marriage. However, the significance and meaning of this work, I would suggest, is much more subtle than this description would allow. The central theme of the story is the search for self-identity and meaning in life. This search for meaning is conveyed in the story largely by the creation of atmosphere, symbols and symbolic imagery that creates or evokes a sense of suppression and oppression, which contributes to the central theme of the denial of individuality and individual expression."

Sample of Sources Used:

• DiYanni, R. Literature: Approaches to fiction, drama and poetry. ( 2nd ed.) New York: McGraw-Hill. 2004.

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