Reading Steinbeck's masterpiece, East of Eden , transported me back to the time when there was virtually no machinery to aid man in his toils. A time minus telephones, modern farming equipment,even refrigeration.It got me thinking about how much we tend to take things for granted.Steinbeck makes it seem so real;we can't help feeling the joys of the simple life,even if we do not have such memories.His insight into the human mind and his relationship with nature,which he effortlessly melds into his writing,never fails to amaze me.
Could not a pastoral life in the countryside be better than a life lived within four walls in dingy cities?Money and luxury are never a substitute for happiness and health.Touching as many people's lives as possible,knowing and loving nature - now these are deeds worthy of pride , not a corporate promotion or a new apartment.