Wresting with Evil - "East of Eden"

A quick review of popular television shows, books, and movies suggests that Americans are fascinated with manifestations of evil.  That being the case, John Steinbeck's East of Eden should be hot.  But don't look for it on the best sellers list.  It hasn't been on any of them for years.

Some might argue that East of Eden is too dated to be popular, and there is no denying the book's structural problems, such as Steinbeck's decision to interrupt his fictional narrative with personal reminiscences.  A full appreciation of the book requires some knowledge of biblical themes not always familiar to many, and to top it off, Steinbeck's reputation suffered a serious blow when it was discovered that he made up portions of Travels with Charley, a purported memoire.

The real problem with East of Eden is that it is too frightening. None of us expects to meet a zombie or to move to the infamous Elm Street, so we are free to enjoy a vicarious thrill on the screen or in the pages of a book.  Meeting the very evil and beautiful Kathy Trask in East of Eden is another matter.  Kathy is a reminder of the evil that is out there, hiding behind a lovely mask, waiting to prey on the innocent and unsuspecting.  Even worse, through Kathy, Steinbeck reminds us that great evil can lurk within average people.  Now that's a nightmare to contemplate, no matter what street you live on.

Jan Schenk Grosskopf
If you feel inclined, take a look at my book at www.andresblanton.com