Novel review - “Cannery Row” By: John Steinbeck

Cannery Row follows a group of 1930’s bums and their shenanigans. In some ways, this is a utopian novel, exploring social class and it’s correlation with virtue. The book also suggests that human connection and good intention can be enough to make a utopia out of a crude wasteland.

With that said, the book began copacetic, but my attention quickly dissipated into thoughts about house chores— Seriously! —house chores! I found that the story slogged on without much positive reinforcement. And I’d like to clarify: I’m not a reader that requires a plot per se, but it better be oozing with wisdom or a unique perspective. This offered some of both, but not enough to keep me engaged.

I know I’m supposed to like this book and I’m sure someone out there is shaking their fist at their smartphone and calling me a Philistine. But if the author’s reputation didn’t precede him, and this book was dropped blindly into my hands, I wouldn’t have powered my way though it to completion.

Perhaps I’m being too blunt. I’m humble enough to say that maybe it’s me, and it’s not the author at all. Allow me to backpedal a little.

I understand why Steinbeck has his Stans. I respect certain elements of his writing: His description skills are elite but often bordering upon frivolous flexing, his symbolism is compelling, and the dialogue is where I found most of the nuggets of wisdom.

I guess I was just expecting… more… having been introduced to Steinbeck through “Of Mice and Men” (which I loved).

If I had to sum it up (as I wish Steinbeck would do more often) the author has some interesting things to say, but in the meeting of our minds, this could have been an email.

⭐️ 2/5 Stars

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