Mad at the World: A Life of John Steinbeck

John Steinbeck's biography explores his apprenticeship as a writer during the Great Depression, his rise to greatness with masterpieces such as "The Red Pony," "Of Mice and Men," and "The Grapes of Wrath," and his sympathy for the Okies, migrant workers, and laborers on Cannery Row, reflecting a social engagement different from the Lost Generation.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 464 pages
Publication date: 26 November 2021
Publisher: WW Norton & Co

This comprehensive biography, the first of its kind in over 25 years, delves into the life and career of John Steinbeck, the esteemed Nobel Laureate. It traces his arduous journey as a writer, navigating the depths of the Great Depression and ascending to greatness with renowned works such as "The Red Pony," "Of Mice and Men," and "The Grapes of Wrath." Steinbeck's most poignant and evocative writing emerged from his deep empathy for the Okies fleeing the dust storms of the Midwest, the migrant workers toiling in California's fields, and the laborers on Cannery Row. This social engagement, in contrast to his natural misanthropy, was remarkably different from that of the writers of the so-called Lost Generation.

Steinbeck, a complex character, possessed a quick temper, a penchant for contradiction, a capacity for compassion, and ultimately, a brilliance that shone through his works. He aimed his pen at the corrosive nature of power, the dangers of income inequality, and the pressing urgency of ecological collapse, topics that continue to spark fierce public debate to this day. Through his profound storytelling, Steinbeck captured the essence of the human experience, leaving an indelible mark on literature and society.

This biography offers a deep exploration of Steinbeck's life, from his humble beginnings in Salinas, California, to his rise to fame and recognition. It sheds light on his relationships, his creative process, and the societal and political issues that influenced his work. With its rich narrative and insightful analysis, "John Steinbeck: A Life in Words" provides a valuable contribution to the understanding and appreciation of one of the greatest writers of the 20th century.

Weight: 356g
Dimension: 139 x 210 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780393868326