The plot of Steinbeck's East of Eden has the issue of money intertwined with the stories of most of the main characters. On the surface, money seems to be accepted by society and is the solution to all problems; many times the rich can afford the best land and the latest technology. However, a closer look reveals that money is actually quite powerless. Steinbeck often presents wealthy characters as being discouraged by their surroundings or their role in life. Accordingly, through his treatment of the characters in East of Eden, Steinbeck suggests that financial success cannot buy happiness and love, but can only lead to isolation from society. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an Original Essay Many characters try to buy love, but are unsuccessful. Cyrus, for example, arouses suspicion rather than admiration from his sons. “‘I think he stole the money,’ said Charles miserably,” reading Cyrus’ will (69). He feels betrayed by his father whom he loves. Even Adam, who never mourned the death of Cyrus but instead accepted and freely used his share of the inheritance, remarks "He was a thief... He stole the GAR" (582). Cyrus' wealth leaves an imprint of remorse rather than respect on his sons. Charles, reciprocally, tries to buy his father's love. He spends six coins on a knife for Cyrus' birthday, which is not appreciated - "Where is that knife?...I never even saw him sharpen it" (29). Maddened by the lack of attention he receives for his expensive gift, Charles tries to take out his anger on his innocent brother. Adam does not try to get his father's attention, but instead devotes money and attention to his wife and son Aron, where it is futile. Cathy leaves the ranch as soon as she is well enough and Aron never bothers to tell his father anything. Adam's carefully thought-out gift to Aron is ignored: "He did not take the gold watch" (573). Interestingly, just like the previous generation, while the father is busy chasing after the son who doesn't like him, his other neglected son is busy finding ways to get noticed by the father. Cal works hard to secure a large and valuable gift of fifteen thousand dollars for his father, only to have it rejected and told that it does not fit with his brother's college education. "I would have been so happy if you could have given me - well, what your brother has - pride in what he does, joy in his progress. Money, even clean money, is not worth that” (544). All these failed attempts show that money is not enough to buy love. Instead of benefits, money can actually lead to isolation. In East of Eden, wealthy characters are often isolated from society. Adam and Charles, rich thanks to their father's will, have enough to live comfortably so as not to have to work and therefore interact with others. Yet Charles, even though he is rich, is so miserly that he “never spent a cent.” He pinched a dollar until the eagle screamed” (372). He works like crazy on the farm and never has fun. Even small amounts are the subject of arguments: “Remember when you sent me a telegram for a hundred dollars? You never paid it back” (108). Charles even wants to buy back his brother's shares so as not to disturb him (107). Her brother, Adam, also takes advantage of her financial stability by feeling sorry for himself after Cathy leaves. His salary in Lee ensures that he and his sons will be fed and their house will be cleaned. He never bothers to" (541).