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Paradox
Definition of Personification
Personification is a type of figurative language in which non-human things are described as having human attributes, as in the sentence, "The rain poured down on the wedding guests, indifferent... read full definition
Personification is a type of figurative language in which non-human things are described as having human attributes, as in the sentence, "The rain poured down... read full definition
Personification is a type of figurative language in which non-human things are described as having human attributes, as in the... read full definition
Chapter 2
Explanation and Analysis—Liza's Morals:
In the following passage from Chapter 2, Steinbeck uses personification to elucidate the paradoxical nature of Liza Hamilton's religious and moral beliefs:
[Liza Hamilton] had a dour Presbyterian mind and a code of morals that pinned down and beat the brains out of nearly everything that was pleasant to do.
In this excerpt, Steinbeck personifies Liza's moral code, stating that these ideas would "pin down" and "beat the brains out of" any shred of personal enjoyment or satisfaction. Paradoxically, this bit of figurative language conflates morality and violence, which one might traditionally assume are opposing concepts. This line forms a connection between religious moral codes and the violent acts they often inspire. This violence takes multiple forms: on a large scale, major Christian religious institutions in Europe were key actors in encouraging and justifying imperialism. On the level of Liza Hamilton, however, this violence is less exploitative and more about simple enforcement. Liza ascribes to the moral rules in the Bible that must be enforced, and violence is the easiest way to enforce them.
Violence aside, the object of Liza's opposition includes "everything that was pleasant to do." This antagonistic relationship with pleasure is a key aspect of Liza's character, influencing how she raises her children.
Related Themes:
Chapter 6
Explanation and Analysis—Loneliness:
Upon leaving the military after serving out his first five years, Adam finds himself listless and purposeless, looking for meaning and belonging. In Chapter 6, Steinbeck uses personification to highlight this loneliness:
Adam walked through the dark town, increasing his speed as though his loneliness sniffed along behind him.
The above bit of figurative language conjures up the image of a loyal dog, sniffing along in its master's footsteps. Adam's loneliness is so potent that it is a constant presence, following behind him unfailingly. The close relationship Adam has with isolation only fuels his desperation to leave and travel: he desperately wants to move to California, see other parts of the U.S., and vacation abroad. Adam is listless, and he tries on occupations like ill-fitting garments.
Adam's lonesomeness connects directly to the creation narrative in Genesis. After creating Adam, God acknowledges the tragedy of a solitary existence and uses one of Adam's rib bones to create Eve. Adam instantly accepts Eve as his wife, and they live together in the paradise of Eden—at least, until the Fall. In East of Eden, the story of Adam's loneliness and its narrative trajectory are much the same: almost immediately after meeting Cathy, Adam fixates on her as his "Eve," centering her as the cure for his loneliness. He is, of course, mistaken.
Related Themes:
