53 - The Grapes Of Wrath Part Two (with Andy Matthews and Alasdair Tremblay-Birchall
Feb 16, 2021
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Comedians Andy and Alasdair join Dave to discuss the conclusion of 'The Grapes of Wrath'. They talk about the struggles in Hooverville, life in a communal government camp, religious references in literature, and humorous anecdotes about battery evolution and inventive shenanigans.
The Joad family finds temporary solace in a supportive government camp, highlighting the importance of community and generosity.
Exploitative practices at the peach farm expose the harsh realities of labor exploitation and economic injustice.
Reverend Jim Casey's death sparks a violent confrontation, symbolizing the struggles of organizing workers and the repercussions of activism.
Tom's desperate act to protect his family leads to a violent altercation, showcasing the sacrifices and difficult choices in the face of adversity.
Deep dives
Arrival at the camp
The Joad family arrives at a government camp offering shelter and work opportunities. They experience modern amenities like hot water and flushing toilets for the first time and are moved by the community's generosity. They engage in chores to contribute to the camp and find solace in the supportive environment. However, with dwindling supplies and the need for work, they must eventually leave to seek employment elsewhere.
Mr. T's Offer
The Joads are led to a peach farm where they are promised work picking peaches for a meager five cents per box. The family quickly realizes that the inflated prices at the farm store make their earnings insufficient for basic necessities. Despite the welcoming exterior, the exploitative practices of the farm become apparent as the workers struggle to afford necessities.
Casey's Revelation and Tragic End
Reverend Jim Casey reveals his newfound dedication to organizing workers into union-like groups after spending time in prison. He is targeted and killed by police for leading a strike against exploitative peach farm practices. Tom retaliates by killing one of the officers, sparking a violent altercation. Casey's death marks a turning point as Tom grapples with the consequences of their plight.
Violent Confrontation and Escape
Tom engages in a violent confrontation with the police after witnessing Casey's murder, resulting in a lethal altercation. In a desperate bid for escape, Tom strikes back at the officers and manages to flee into the night, injured but determined. Faced with the harsh reality of their situation, Tom and his family navigate the aftermath of the deadly encounter and the uncertain future that lies ahead.
Family Facing Adversity
The Joad family faces challenges as they struggle through poverty and displacement during the Great Depression. Tom Joad's decision to protect his family leads to sacrifices and difficult choices.
Community Support and Unity
Amidst adversity, the Joads and other families come together to support each other in times of need. The community bands together to withstand natural disasters and protect each other.
Themes of Sacrifice and Solidarity
The novel explores themes of sacrifice, solidarity, and the impact of societal issues like poverty and oppression on individuals and families. Characters make tough decisions to survive and protect their loved ones despite facing overwhelming challenges.
On this episode of Book Cheat Dave has read the second half of The Grapes Of Wrath by John Steinbeck. Hearing Dave talk the thrilling conclusion of this American classic is Andy Matthews and Alasdair Tremblay-Birchall from The Pop Test and Two In The Think Tank. (So yeah, this is part two - I strongly recommend you check out part one, episode 52 first. But hey, you do you!)
