American literature plays a vital role in society, providing entertainment while displaying themes related to common issues in the 1940s. One of the novel that reflects some of these major issues is The Pearl, written by John Steinbeck. This novel is based on a story Steinbeck heard during his trip to La Paz, Mexico in 1940. He describes this story in his book, The Log from the Sea of ​​Cortez. Steinbeck attempts to show the difficulties that many people in Mexico face. In particular, The Pearl examines social and cultural inequalities between Mexicans and Europeans, illustrates how aspiration for materialistic goods can lead to destruction, and demonstrates how one man's actions can influence his family's dreams. A major theme displayed in Steinbeck's novel is the difference between the standard of living of Mexicans and that of Europeans. The Mexicans of La Paz are very poor, most living in bush houses containing only one room (Ariki). In Kino's cabin, the single room serves as Coyotito's kitchen, bedroom, and nursery (Johnson 181). Their poverty is further illustrated by the dirt floor covered with ants and other insects (Johnson). “He slipped his feet into his sandals and went out to watch the dawn” describes his morning routine (Steinbeck 3). Kino's daily breakfast consisted of corn cakes and pulque, an alcoholic beverage (Johnson 182). Since Mexicans cannot afford utensils, they must use their hands to eat their food. This is ironic because it was the Mexicans who worked the hardest for a living (Johnson 181). Around noon, Kino and the others went out to sea in their canoes and dove for pearls. As it was their family's only source of income, the... middle of paper ... at a high price. For example, by purchasing a gun, Kino can show that he has the same goods as the rich, and thus limit the difference between the two social classes (Johnson 184). However, Kino and Juana have one main dream: to give Coyotito an education. This is important in this era because it would eliminate the family's ignorance and Coyotito would be able to survive in a changing world because of this knowledge (Johnson 184). The Pearl plays an important role in redefining American literature for this period, and it shows issues that remained a problem for a long time. Social and cultural inequalities are evident throughout this novel which describes the living conditions of Mexicans in the 1940s. It can also show how difficult it is to pursue dreams when they are driven by greed, and can ultimately lead to destruction..