“Money is power, freedom, a cushion, the root of all evil, the sum of blessings” once said Carl Sandburg. In Cannery Row, by John Steinbeck, a theme is revealed that is quite clear; wealth. It can be used for good, opportunities, the sum of all success, but also the root of all evil. We know this soon as we take an adventure through Cannery Row and experience death, scamming, and depression. There are so many scenes in which wealth influenced others’ choices that it is merely impossible for the reader to leave without knowing the importance of money in the fight of good versus evil.
First off, money can be used for the worse. On page 67, Mack tries indirectly receiving money from Red by asking for five gallons of oil in the car, and five gallons in a separate bucket for “later use”. “Put in five and give us five in a can-one of them sealed cans.” Since Mack comes from a generally poor place to live in, whoever has the slightest amount of money is considered king. Here, he was trying to get Red to give him oil in a can so he can later sell it, since he knows refilling it is free, courtesy of Doc, a marine biologist. This supports my theme of riches being able to be used for evil because money can influence the choices of others for the worse.…show more content… On page 124-125, multiple people are planning a party for Doc, “What’s going to make Doc the happiest?.... The party!” All of this was possible by money, the common denominator of all success. They were able to buy beer, whiskey, decorations, a welcome back Doc sign, and much more. This is all possible because of fortune. Furthermore, this supports my theme of prosperity being able to be used for good because Mack and “the boys” and others were able to plan and execute a surprise party for
