What is still the most vivid scene you visualize from the florid eloquence of John Steinbeck's works?

Question

I still see the ending scene of the "Grapes of Wrath" , the bums on the porch in "Cannery Row" and the anguish of the main character after his wife's death in "To A God Unknown".

I rather enjoyed describing his works as florid but that is my perception. However, this is an excellent question for this site so I will ask it in my next question :)

Ok, I give. I was using florid in the sense of elaborate but I see that popular understanding of the word has a highly negative connotation, therefore, please scratch the florid from my question and I will never do it again :)

Answer 1

There is nothing at all "florid" about Steinbeck's writing style. Eloquent? Yes. Evocative? Very. But florid? Absolutely not. It makes me question whether you even know the meaning of the word.

From Merriam-Webster:

Main Entry: flor·id
Pronunciation: 'flor-&d, 'flär-
Function: adjective
Etymology: Latin floridus blooming, flowery, from florEre
1 a obsolete : covered with flowers b : very flowery in style : ORNATE ; also : having a florid style c : elaborately decorated

Post script: My objection to "florid" had nothing to do with its connotation (negative or otherwise) - I just plain don't think it's **accurate.**

Answer 2

One of the intercolary chapters in the Grapes of Wrath in which the turtles are trying to cross the road and are surrounded by the dry and barren landscape. It reflects the mood of the entire work.

Answer 3

In East of Eden, the chapter where we're first introduced to Cathy is my favorite. She's such a demon!

Answer 4

Kino coming to the surface of the water with the pearl in his hand. ( The Pearl)

Answer 5

"The Red Pony" the scene with the vultures...