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About this quote

What does it mean?
This character uses harsh, objectifying language to dismiss a young woman.
In plain terms
George speaks disrespectfully about a young woman to protect himself or another.
What can you take from it?
Harsh language often hides fear or possessiveness.

Where it applies

  • interpreting character dynamics
  • analyzing conflict
  • reading dialogue

Putting it to work

  • understanding character motivation
  • analyzing dialogue

Questions to consider

  • What does this dialogue say about the speaker?
  • Why use such harsh words?

Another view

The quote reflects character bias, not Steinbeck's own view.

More from John Steinbeck

  1. Well, that glove's fulla vaseline. Vaseline? What the hell for? Well, I tell ya what - Curley says he's keepin' that hand soft for his wife.' Ch. 2, p.29

    Permalink to quote #16

  2. His ear heard more than was said to him, and his slow speech had overtones not of thought, but of understanding beyond thought. Ch.2, p.35

    Permalink to quote #18

  3. What the hell kind of bed you giving us, anyways. We don't want no pants rabbits. Ch. 2, p.20

    Permalink to quote #15

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