Grapes Of Wrath Rose Of Sharon Breastfeeding Quote
The Grapes of Wrath is a novel written by John Steinbeck, published in 1939. The novel follows the story of the Joad family, who were forced to leave their home in Oklahoma during the Dust Bowl and travel to California in search of work and a better life. Throughout the novel, there are several themes that are explored, including the struggle for survival, the importance of family, and the power of hope.
Rose of Sharon
Rose of Sharon is a character in The Grapes of Wrath who is pregnant throughout most of the novel. She is portrayed as young and naive, but also strong and resilient. In one of the most powerful scenes in the novel, Rose of Sharon gives birth to a stillborn child. She is devastated by the loss, but later finds purpose in breastfeeding a starving man who is near death.
The Breastfeeding Quote
The breastfeeding quote from The Grapes of Wrath has become one of the most memorable and iconic moments in American literature. The quote comes from the scene where Rose of Sharon breastfeeds the starving man. The man is so weak that he can barely hold onto her breast, but she continues to feed him, even though it is an uncomfortable and difficult experience for her.
The quote reads:
"Her hand moved behind his head and supported it. Her fingers moved gently in his hair. She looked up and across the barn, and her lips came together and smiled mysteriously."
This quote has been interpreted in many different ways, but most people see it as a symbol of hope and human connection. Despite the hardships that the Joad family and the other migrants face, they are still able to find moments of kindness and compassion.
The Importance of the Breastfeeding Quote
The breastfeeding quote from The Grapes of Wrath is important for several reasons. First, it highlights the theme of sacrifice that runs throughout the novel. Rose of Sharon is willing to give up something that is very personal and intimate in order to help another person. This act of selflessness is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is still goodness in the world.
Second, the quote is a reminder of the power of human connection. Despite the fact that Rose of Sharon and the starving man are from different backgrounds and have different experiences, they are still able to connect on a basic human level. This connection is what makes them both feel alive and gives them hope for the future.
Conclusion
The Grapes of Wrath is a powerful novel that explores the struggles and triumphs of the human spirit. The breastfeeding quote from the novel has become an iconic moment in American literature, reminding us of the importance of sacrifice and human connection. As we continue to face challenges in our own lives, we can look to this quote as a source of inspiration and hope.