What is the significance of the slot machine?

The Joads have fallen on difficult times, and yet they go on in the hopes that they will find work and be able to take care of their family. Leaving their home involves taking a risk; they give up their home, they leave most everything they own behind........ and they get in a truck to risk it all for a bit of luck in another place. This taking of chances (risks) is why the slot machine is significant. If you don't put in your last quarter and take the risk....... if you don't take the chance........ you'll never know if Lady Luck has found you. The slot machine symbolizes society and stands for the people who take risks and come out ahead....... and then those who don't take the chance and may just be losing out.