The Eternity of Classics: The Resonance of John Steinbeck’s “The Grapes of Wrath" in Chloe Zhao's 2020 Film “Nomadland”

Abstract

Reading classics serves as an open window to past centuries. Moreover, by
considering modern dilemmas and day to day lifestyle, one realises the likeness between
the two. As in the study of politics and world history, it is known that understanding
contemporary situations cannot be acquired except by reading the past to reflect it on
today’s world state. Classical literature is the form of literature that stands still with the
passing of time, conveying universal ideas which readers appeal to regardless of
geography or time period. However, the analysis of classical novels as timeless pieces is
minor compared to the examination of their historical and political background. In
accordance, the analysis of “The Grapes of Wrath” (1939) by John Steinbeck aims to
evoke the remnant of American classical novels, through the consideration of historical
and political context in which the novel was influenced by, and highlights the significance
of classics in providing comprehension on contemporary circumstances. By taking the
example of modern film “Nomadland” directed by Chloe Zhao. In both works politics plays
a crucial role in shaping the narrative of the two stories, in which capitalism is the
opposing force that manipulates the protagonists. Moreover, economic decay functions
as the core critique in both, as Steinbeck and Zhao use their art as a tool to critique
American corrupt economic structure. Depicting the Great Depression in “The Grapes of
Wrath" and the Great Recession in “Nomadland” to elaborate on the fallacy of the
American Dream ideal. In a road journey to dream land, the two structure the narrative of
the main characters’ quest to reach stability and mobility. This review paper functions as
a comparative analysis to emphasize the importance of classical novels in understanding contemporary conditions, highlighting the relevance of classics to modern readers. Proving that human lives do not really change as time passes. contemporary conditions, highlighting the relevance of classics to modern readers.Proving that human lives do not really change as time passes.