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The Grapes of Wrath

by John Steinbeck

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Student Question

In The Grapes of Wrath, what is significant about Ma's reaction when the car breaks down?

Quick answer:

Ma's reaction to the car breaking down in The Grapes of Wrath highlights her determination to keep the family united despite hardships. When Tom suggests splitting up to fix the car, Ma fiercely opposes the idea, emphasizing that "all we got is the family unbroke." Her stance underscores her role as the family's emotional anchor, prioritizing unity over reaching California quickly or finding economic opportunities.

Expert Answers

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In Chapter 16 of The Grapes of Wrath, the Wilson's car breaks down again, and Tom suggests that he and Casy stay behind to fix it (it needs a bearing, which they will have to wait to buy on Monday).  So, the truck will go ahead to California while the car stays behind a couple of days.  Everyone likes this idea except Ma.  She threatens to fight Pa with the jack handle if he agrees to this plan.  She says:

"All we got is the family unbroke."

Ma refuses to break up the family any more than it's been broken up.  The family has already left Grandpa behind.  Ma has seen what has happened to the Wilsons because of car trouble: they've been delayed by weeks and had their family broken up too (Wilson's brother had car trouble and couldn't make the trip).  No, Ma doesn't care about going to California; she doesn't care about money, or jobs, or opportunity.  All she cares about is the family: she's the glue that holds them together:

"Up ahead they's a thousan' lives we might live, but when it comes it'll on'y be one."

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