The Symbolism of the Tinker in Steinbeck's.
John Steinbeck's "The Chrysanthemums" (reprinted in Edgar V. Roberts, Literature: An Introduction to Reading and Writing, 6th Ed. New Jersey: Prentice Hall, 2001, 447-454) is about a proud, strong woman named Elisa Allen, yet she feels frustrated with her present life. Her frustration stems from not having a child, and her husband's failure to admire her romantically as a woman. The only outlet for her frustration is her flower garden. This is where she cultivates beautiful chrysanthemums. The chrysanthemums tell a great deal about Elisa's struggle to find her own identity. She does not seem in touch with her sexuality, and she is unable to articulate the source of the dissatisfaction. The meeting with the tinker renews Elisa's feelings of femininity and sexuality as a woman. The tinker gives Elisa hope of a more fulfilling life, while providing her with a renewed sense of self.
In the portion of the story where Elisa is talking to the tinker, Steinbeck shows Elisa's eagerness for attention, and how she comes to the realization that there is a more exciting life outside of the farm. In the tinker, Elisa finds someone who sees her as more than a housewife. He is someone who can appreciate her from an unbiased viewpoint. She is eager to talk about her chrysanthemums. When he mentions that he knows someone who might be interested growing chrysanthemums, "Elisa's eyes grew alert and eager"(450). The old man picks up the vibes from her infatuation with these flowers. Since others might be interested in her passion for gardening, she has the idea that she may have a distinct role in society. This ignites the realization that she longs to break free from the everyday routine she calls "life." This feeling is so strong that "her hands went out toward his legs in the greasy black trousers"(451) as if to grasp a piece of his adventurous life.