Student Question
How does Steinbeck depict the depth of feeling between Kino and Juana?
Quick answer:
Steinbeck depicts the deep bond between Kino and Juana by illustrating their unity in adversity. After the tragic death of their son, Coyotito, they walk side by side, symbolizing their shared grief and solidarity. This change from Kino walking ahead to walking together highlights their emotional connection and mutual support, as they are left with nothing but each other after realizing the pearl's value brought only sorrow.
The depth of feeling that Kino and Juana have for each other can be seen towards the end of the book when they return to the beach after Coyotito's tragic death. Normally, when the two walk together, Kino is ahead of Juana. But now they walk side by side, as if their tragic loss has brought them together in adversity. As they walk through the town, it's as if no one and nothing else exists. Having lost their only child, and having both realized that the valuable pearl has brought them nothing but sorrow, they have nothing left in life but each other. So they walk slowly in lock-step together, on through the city and down to the beach, oblivious of their immediate surroundings, existing purely and solely for each other.
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