Steinbeck enhances this theme by drawing a parallel between the Joads' journey and the Exodus of the Jews from Egypt to the Promised Land. California is depicted as a paradise for those escaping their homes in the Midwest. The valley where the Joads and other migrants seek employment seems idyllic; yet, instead of discovering a land overflowing with milk, honey, and abundant grapes, these unfortunate families face only hardship and bitterness. Although they are surrounded by fruit-laden trees, they are prohibited from enjoying any of the bounty. They are denied access to this God-created land not by a divine decree but by the actions of other men. Through this, Steinbeck highlights the darker aspects of human nature: when people fail to cooperate and choose to discriminate against each other, life becomes a living hell.