The Grapes of Wrath - Tom Joad

When I first began to read The Grapes of Wrath I thought that I was going to be taken on a journey with Tom Joad and his life outside of a jail cell. I was really expecting Tom to get himself in to some more trouble after leaving jail, find a girl whom he falls madly in love with, she turns him into a respectful young man, and in the end they live happily ever after. Boy was I wrong. I was quite surprised to see the maturity level of Tom actually increase and become stronger as the novel progressed. Despite the fact that in my opinion Ma Joad was the main protagonist and hero of the novel, Tom plays a significant role in adding to the unique plot of The Grapes of Wrath.

Readers are first introduced to Tom Joad in the very beginning of the novel. He has just been released from prison for murdering a man and catches a ride with a truck driver, whom Tom is extremely rude to, back to his home. “’Homicide,’ he said quickly. ‘That’s a big word – means I killed a guy. Seven years. I’m sprung in four for keepin’ my nose clean,’” (Steinbeck 18-19). Tom’s attitude in the beginning of the novel is somewhat dry. Despite the fact he is free to go where he wants after being released from prison, he still proceeds to be a jerk to the people he comes in contact with, especially the truck driver. A man that is willing to help Tom out, a complete stranger to Tom himself is treated with disrespect from Mr. Joad. Readers learn that Tom takes his newfound freedom for granted and has a bit of a cocky attitude.

Tom’s whole mindset changes as the Joads embark on their journey out West. He becomes a responsible and caring young man. This transformation is more than likely caused by Tom’s realization that family is everything and he must do all possible to help his kin out. In chapter 16, Tom helps out with his brother Al in fixing the car they use to get to California. He works hard to get it fixed with his family on his mind the whole time. When the Joads begin to doubt going to California after hearing a “ragged man” tell them of the unfortunate situation in California, Tom reassures the family it will be alright (Steinbeck 262). I have a profound respect for Tom because he shows how he really is a mature young man, despite what wrong he has done in his life.

Steinbeck, John. The Grapes of Wrath. New York: Penguin, 2006. Print.