The Phalanx
A phalanx is the name given to the defensive posture adopted by ancient Greek warriors which allowed them increase collective strength of small numbers. In “Argument of the Phalanx” Steinbeck draws up this literal concept to expand its power into the metaphorical. The phalanx becomes the symbol of how a small group of individuals bound together by a common purpose can become a stronger single unit capable of withstanding a seemingly overwhelming oppressive force.
The Catholic Church
In “The Soul and Guts of Force” writes of meeting Louis Gibey, a teacher who also—of course—raises grapes. Gibey explains how the Catholic Church had for all of its existence been the predominant symbol of reactionary conservatism. Under the rigid authoritarianism of Soviet communist influence across Europe, the Catholic Church—especially younger priests—had transformed into the exact opposite symbol of progressive resistance against reactionary conservatism.
Joan of Arc
Joan of Arc is, Steinbeck asserts, a story that could not possibly have happened, yet did. The impossibility of the story of Joan is historically rejected: the facts are there that despite all the elements of tale which seem to derive straight from fiction, it is historical fact. With the suggestion that if such a thing happened once, it can happen again, Joan becomes Steinbeck’s symbolic incarnation that the seemingly miraculous—not actual miracles—can happen because the have happened.
Bob Hope
It was inevitable that Steinbeck’s voluminous war correspondence would eventually cross paths with Bob Hope. More so than any military commander, the comedian is synonymous with America’s entire 20th century wartime history from World War II onward. His presence in those faraway lands where American soldiers were fighting became so iconic that Steinbeck identifies him as a man who became a symbol. And in analyzing the way Bob Hope became a symbol, he is enlarged to become symbolic the challenge faced by those rare human being who attain being a symbol of something much grander than themselves.
Mobile Homes
The mobile home is Steinbeck’s symbol for the paradoxical nature of Americans. At the center of “Paradox and Dream” is an analysis of how Americans invest great nationalistic pride in becoming a homeowner and then proceed to commute to work, take vacations, enjoy weekend getaways, engage in constant cross-country relocation and do just about everything they can to avoid spending time at home.
