Tom Joad's Thoughts in Grapes of Wrath?

Question

What is a quote out of the Grapes of Wrath that expresses Tom Joad's thoughts???

thank you! =)

Answer 1

Whenever they's a fight so hungry people can eat, I'll be there. Whenever they's a cop beatin' up a guy, I'll be there . . . . I'll be in the way guys yell when they're mad an'-I'll be in the way kids laugh when they're hungry an' they know supper's ready. An' when our folks eat the stuff they raise an' live in the houses they build-why, I'll be there." Tom Joad, Chapter 28

The Grapes of Wrath is my favorite book and this quote has always stuck with me. At this point in the novel, Tom Joad has become a disciple of the slain Jim Casy, and despite being in prison and suffering hardships, he realizes that he can still make a difference in the lives of those who are suffering. He has experienced the suffering and prejudice first hand and he knows that if he can spread the message to the unions and those who are organized, regardless of his fate, he will continue to make a change in the lives of "his people."

It is a very moving message, adapted from Jim Casy's own philosophy, and with strong religious overtones.