How we cite our quotes: (Part.Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
The morning came, a bright one with the tawny look of autumn in the sunlight. My wife and I parted very quickly, since both of us hate good-bys, and neither of us wanted to be left when the other had gone. (2.1.3)
Even though Steinbeck signed up for this solitary (except for Charley) adventure, he sure doesn't seem to be excited about going out alone.
Quote #2
She gunned her motor and exploded away for New York and I, with Charley beside me, drove Rocinante to the Shelter Island Ferry, and then to a second ferry to Greenport and a third from Orient Point to the coast of Connecticut, across Long Island Sound, for I wanted to avoid New York traffic and get well on my way. And I confess to a feeling of gray desolation. (2.1.3)
It didn't take long for Steinbeck to start feeling kind of sad and lonely, it seems. Even though he doesn't specifically use those words, what else could it be, since he admitted parting from his wife was difficult?
Quote #3
We drove on in the autumn afternoon, heading north. Because I was self-contained, I thought it might be nice if I could invite people I met along the way to my home for a drink, but I had neglected to lay in liquor. (2.1.33)
To help offset some of the natural isolation of his project, Steinbeck quickly outfits Rocinante with a full liquor bar to help attract visitors. Because nothing says fun like going into a stranger's car to consume alcohol.