The Chrysantemums

“Chrysanthemums”, by John Steinbeck To have an excellent short story, it must contain a vivid setting that the readers can visualize, a realistic characterization that is easy to relate to, and a well developed plot. John Steinbeck’s “The Chrysanthemums” definitely meets all these requirements. “The Chrysanthemums” is set in the Salinas Valley in California. A place where sunshine shines off the river, but in December, it bathes in cold sunshine. “The high gray-flannel fog …showed first 75 words of 814 total…

…showed last 75 words of 814 total…drive down the road her strength is quickly damaged as she spots something on the side of the road. She immediately knows that it is the chrysanthemums that she had given the man. Elisa wants to be not only an equal to men, but to be dominant. As they pass by, she sadly realizes that she can never be equal to a man. Steinbeck uses his setting, characterization, and plot perfectly to create “The Chrysanthemums”.