America and Americans by John Steinbeck
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I think I'll just say that something like 60% of these many essays by Steinbeck are still as valuable today as when they were first written. They deal with humanity, his past, and a sharp eye on the world he experienced--just like the core of his truly great novels.

The importance is doubly clear when the events he wrote about--unions, migrant laborers, real people--were being shat on by those with power. Circumstances were not so different in the 30's as they are now. This shouldn't be much of a surprise to anyone. But it's absolutely scary just how close we are to re-living it all, almost exactly as it happened then.

Specifics? How about those who win re-write history? The lies told about America, and re-told, and even shoved down our throats. Yes, the big lies. The ones that perpetuate racism, blaming victims, and that particular blindness that encourages fascism when it helps absolutely no one except those who think might makes right.

Steinbeck understood, and fought against it where he could, but by the end of his career, and his life, he'd seen an America on the top in the 60's. He'd seen the apparent end of the robber barons (from the high tax rates of the super rich) and the ever-growing military might of America's forces following WWII. I personally thought he got a bit confused. The only way to fight for peace is NOT by just volunteering to be medics. But that's neither here nor there, and it was still an argument borne from a man who died 50 years ago.

Some of the essays were not so political or historical, of course. Some were positively charming and personable. But at all times, they were all pretty damn GOOD. Worth reading, especially for context for a great writer's legacy, for history itself, or for anyone who still feels sympathy and mercy for others.

This book's synesthesia is like a personable chat at a table with a good friend, so just add coffee and perhaps a few pastries and the senses will be complete.


Personal note:
If anyone reading my reviews might be interested in reading my own SF, I'm going to be open to requests. Just direct message me in goodreads or email me on my site. I'd love to get some eyes on my novels.

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