How would you like to live a worry free life without a lot of money yet still be successful? When put in the shoes of some key characters in Cannery Row, that is how your life would be. Cannery Row, by John Steinbeck was published in 1945. This novel focuses on the acceptance of life as it is: both the joy of the community and the loneliness of the individual. Cannery Row follows the adventures of Mack and the boys, a group of unemployed men who live in a shack in a vacant lot on Cannery Row. Successful men and women are not always the wealthiest, and most powerful, but live content and self sufficient lives. .
Mack and the boys are a perfect example of being successful, yet not making any money. Even though they are dirt poor, they are still very well liked. As Doc says,.
"I think that Mack and the boys know everything that has happened in the world and possibly everything that will happen. I think they survive in this particular world better than other people. In a time when people tear themselves to pieces with ambition and nervousness and covetousness, they are relaxed. All of our so- called successful men are sick men, with bad stomachs, and bad souls, but Mack and the boys are healthy and curiously clean." (141-142). .
By Doc saying this, it describes many key characteristics about Mack and the boys. These boys are the foundation of this society. This is because they know everything about anything about Cannery Row. They work their hard to make sure that the society is the way it should be, and everyone knows who they are. Mack and the boys survive better in this world than the so-called "successful" men and women. When others in the society are hurt or sad, Mack and the boys are calm and relaxed. When "successful" men are sick, the boys are healthy as can be. Mack and the boys are able to support themselves and be self sufficient although they struggle for money.
Dora and the girls are another example of being successful, yet not wealthy or powerful.
