I had suffered a brain injury. I could not walk, talk, read, or write. I crawled about the floor of my house. I began to read Betrix Potter and The Just So Stories. I was able to receive books on tape from the library. I had loved Steinbeck previously. I ordered East of Eden. It engaged with my poor brain in such a way that my : overall well-being improved, I reconnected to the world, and yes my joy returned after several hellish years.😊
You're a true inspiration to me Benjamin! What you do in this world is beautiful, heartfelt, important and forward thinking. These videos must be so much work to make!! I have a lot of respect for that and am so thankful to be able to follow your journey. Wishing you all the best for 2024 and all the awesome content coming up 🙏
Salinas is my hometown, the Pastures of Heaven was my neighborhood growing up, Cannery Row was where I grew up and got my first job, and East of Eden was the final nail in the coffin that condemned me to be a lifelong Steinbeck fan. When I was a kid doing beekeeping in my local 4-H club, I saw The Bee Movie in the Steinbeck memorial theater in downtown Salinas. Thank you for delivering this brilliant work the justice it deserves.
I have lived for 64 years and never have met Benjamin McEvoy until now! It's never too late to be or do what you wanted to do in your and with you life. Thank you Benjamin!
I am 84 and I love this book. I came to it when i was just 15 or 16 . I didn't know who Steinbeck was then but I wanted to read his work because I had seen the films of The Grapes of Wrath and East of Eden. The scene of Cal 's birthday present to Adam still has me tearing up. It's so painful!
only a quarter way through so far cause i had to keep pausing every few pages because, like you, it had me tearing up, too. that 'she smiled at adam and he closed his eyes' line made a mess of me 😅 couldnt recover for quite awhile lmao
I read this book as a junior in college, and it completely changed my life. I'm currently in my second year of my American Literature PhD program, and this remains the best book I've ever read.
I have read East of Eden five times in my life and I know that I will continue to go back to this novel over and over again. I recently read War and Peace and it gave me that same epic feeling. Books like this can change your life and make you see the world differently. Going back to them with all the characters that you love is like going back to an old friend. You will learn something every time you reread it. Thank you for your videos. I love this channel, always look forward to a new video. ❤
@@tootscarlson I read the penguin Anthony Briggs translation last year and it was great. I am currently rereading War and Peace with the footnotes and tangents book club. This time I chose the Louise and Aylmer Maude translation. There is definitely a difference between the two. They are both excellent, it just depends on your preference. All the french is translated in the Briggs translation, maybe it would be easier for a first read. I really feel like the Maude is more quotable and sounds more old timey. Hope that helps.
I read East of Eden about 8 years ago, loved it, and flew through it. However, after watching your lecture, I realized that I missed at least half, if not three-quarters of the book. This reminded me of a professor of a modern French literature course I took in university, who insisted that we read each book three times: the first time for the story, and the second and third times to really get to know the book. I am now excited to read East of Eden for the second time.
Your video just enlightened me about a scene on One Hundred Years of Solitude "blood crieth unto me from the ground". Talking about East of Eden i read interested in how Samuel would relate to Samuel the prophet, specially looking for the number 3, the number of times that God called him and I saw that Samuel has 3 strong shivers when he meets Cathy (maybe I'm seeing too much). Great video as always!
Benjamin's back with another banger. Many parallels between this one and the subject of another recent video of yours: Paradise Lost. Thank you for continuing to create such engaging content!
Thank you so much, Shrinesh! I really appreciate that. :) And beautiful insight! Paradise Lost and East of Eden are definitely incredibly complementary works!
This video was awesome, as always, Ben. And I think you should Show us your bookself(or shelves) for a great video. I think others will agree too! If yes then please like:
I just joined the bookclub and I'm beyond excited to read East of Eden and share it with book lovers around the world 😄 what a great way to start the year ben! nothing better than spending the winter months with a big book
Thank you so much, Julia! I'm so thrilled you're excited for this one and cannot wait to hear what you make of it! I do love getting through the winter months with a sweeping saga ☺️
I adore the writings of John Steinbeck. I'm sure I've read everything he's published. I especially loved one that most people never touch which is travels with Charlie or a lovely lovely lovely book. I'm thankful to you for mentioning it maybe more people will read it. Best wishes Heidi in Atlanta
Ironically, I'm reading this independently and didn't know it was part of the HLBC right now! The detailed humanity of the characters, is breathtaking.
ready with my version in Spanish! Here in Spain could only find one edition with James Dean on the cover 😅. Hope the translation doesn’t disappoint. It’s 682 pages. I read in English but somehow wanted to grasp the full meaning of Steinbeck’s words. His Of Mice and Men shook me in high school. Can’t wait to read this one. Thanks for the video!
Hey Ben, Just had to drop a note to say your "Moby Dick" breakdown is gold. As a non-native English speaker, tackling those fancy words is a real challenge. So, here's the real gem: the link between Jonah and Raskolnikov. Both stuck in tight spots, turning their backs on God, and drowning in angst. It's like they're cut from the same cloth - Jonah swallowed by the whale, Raskolnikov trapped in his tiny apartment. Your insights opened my eyes to this unexpected connection Greetings from Don Quikote's Spain, Pablo.
I saw the movie 40 years ago and thought that was it. Then I found out that the movie is only the last ¼ of the book. So, 5 years ago I read the book. OMG!! I did not know it was about MY family. My mother graduated from King City High School. My grandfather bought 20 acres not far from where Sam Hamilton had his land. Steinbeck’s description of Sam’s land was what I remembered of my grandfather’s land. He never made any money from it, and instead, my grandfather dug other people’s wells.
Hear me out and feel free to judge my ignorance but I am struggling to get through this book. Yes, it's beautifully written, but with the exception of Sam Hamilton, none of the characters are likeable and the only interesting story line is that of Cathy Ames. The boys story line is like beating a dead horse to me - we already read this in the first half of the book with the first two brothers. I get it. Good vs. Evil. Cain and Abel. I'm so bored that I can't bring myself to pick the book back up. Someone tell me why I should keep going other than it's a classic. I came here to try and understand what missing and I still don't get it.
Thanks for the great overview of that Steinbeck's pearl! Your videos fill me with passion for literature! I have been reading books in English for half-a-year now and would be grateful if somebody acquainted with King Arthur legends could give me advice on some definitive and well-written version of those tales. For here in Russia we do not have enough information about English books, especially such of an old age)
As we say in Sweden, Benjamin, misunderstand me the right way 🙃 Your lovely voice puts me to sleep. I listen to you at night to fall asleep, then listen again the following day, for content. And now you're talking about sleep... kinda freaky timing!
Thanks Ben! Before reading the East of Eden I used to say I don´t have a number one book. After reading it I was sitting speechless for a while processing the experience ( perhaps with my mouth open)... Since then I can say I have my favourite book, because it´s taken a very special place in my heart. It is just brilliant and I love Steinbeck ... I´ve read The Grapes of wrath (which is my favourite right behind the East of E.) and Of mice and men. Right now I am reading Travels with Charley and I would like to buy Steinbeck : A life in letters - I want to get to know him better as a person
I just finished Moby Dick a book that's not actually about whaling I happen to think the book is misnamed should be called Leviathan. East of Eden is my next Adventure.
Really wonderful video - I am now very excited to start East Of Eden. John Steinbeck so far is my favorite writer from the US. I loved Grapes of Wrath.
Benjamin my good friend, I wanted to take this opportunity and thank you so much for your beautiful Videos. You are simply the best and I have learned so much from you. You are an amazing professor. Thank you so much for everything you do. I really appreciate it.
I would say that the Patristic (i.e., Church Fathers) understanding of the fall into sin is less "Adam and Eve wanting to be like God" and more Adam and Eve wanting to be like God on their own terms. Genesis tells that mankind was created in the image and likeness of God. Thus, in Classic Christian Theology, the attaining of the likeness (i.e., becoming like God) is the actual destiny of humanity. However, God is God by Nature/Essence. We human beings can never be that. But we can be like God by grace, which is being partakers of the divine nature through the transfiguring grace that God pours into our hearts. Seen in that light, the fall into sin was giving into the temptation to becoming like God by nature (i.e., on their own terms) instead of becoming God by grace (i.e., on the terms that were possible for creatures). Becoming like God by divine grace is called Theosis or Divinization. And in Classic Christianity, Divinization, which entails union with God, is the essence of our Faith. St. Athanasius thus said: God became man that man might become god. That notion is found in Psalm 82:6, which says, "I have said, 'Ye are gods, and all of you are children of the Most High." Thus, to be a Child of God, (i.e., to be united with Him) is to be a lower case god. In other words, to become a god with God in accordance with His will and in keeping with our nature as creatures, and His nature as being uncreated: the act of existing.
@@gy2gy246 Many if not most of the Church Fathers didn’t read Genesis literally, so that's not really new. Literal understandings of Genesis don't really get popular until after the Reformation thanks largely to Sola Scriptura as a guiding principle. And it's hard to not get "too far into religion" when the argument being made is fundamentally of religious origin and substance. I'm merely pointing that the idea/notion in question that East of Eden engages with is not_the_interpretation of Genesis. Instead, it's a newer one. And if one operates on the older, non-literal interpretive tradition, one would approach that key theme of this novel in a different way.
Thank you so much for another inspiring lecture. I first read East of Eden 60 years ago and loved it, not least because of the movie starring James Dean. Since then I have readmost if not all of Steinbeck's books. When I saw the title of your video I took my copy off the shelf and started to reread it, at the same time as reading Gravity's Rainbow. I can't agree that all the characters are psychologically complex. I think Cathy is a one note pony - all evil. Apparently based on his second wife, Gwen Conger, whose memoir'my Life with Steinbeck" is being published. A small gnit- picking thing. Steinbeck uses the omniscient narrator technique but somewhere in the first third of the book, the narrator becomes an I. This is Steinbeck's authorial voice interjecting a memoir of his own mother. This confused me. Was this fiction or memoir. The narrator becoming I didn't help the narrative. But I will continue to the end.
Dear Ben, I got interested about East of Eden from your Reading List of 2024, and have started this novel last week. This is very captivating, so far. Just got till Chapter 7. This is my first Steinbeck, and am loving it. :) Thanks again, and keep up the great work you're doing. :) :)
Great 1st lecture on the masterpiece that is East of Eden, Ben, on some days my absolute favourite book. On Chapter 4 and I will look for the keys now that I'm reading on a deeper level! As always, loving your Patreon Book Club. Looking forward to the next lecture. All the best, Ruth 😍👏
Am new to the book club and have started reading East of Eden for the first time... great read so far and your intro has just blown my mind in terms of the biblical linkages... in a 'timing is everything' twist- have also recently started reading the bible- and just finished Genesis... but now I want to go back and re-read that with your commentary in mind! Thanks for a great intro!
Wow! Great video I appreciate how much detail you go into. I haven’t even finished east of eden yet but this video makes me more that excited to finish it😄
This is the first book you’ve talked about that I’ve actually read before, and it was the book that I first read when I became interested in literature.
What a magnificent appetizer this was! I read this book as a teenager in a different language, different country, different continent. I don't remember much of it, except how much it moved me at the time. What a pleasure to discover it almost 25 years later, in the original, with Ben and the Hardcore Literature members.
Read this last year and fell absolutely head over heels for it. Brilliant work and an instant favourite. Plus i just got The Grape of Wrath for christmas so i’ll be picking that up very soon (probably after i finish Jane Eyre which im quite liking)
Recently joined the book club and I am listening to EoE on my long commutes. Then I pick up the book at home to reread and mark certain passages. I think this will become one of my all time favorite books. Thank you for the introduction.
Fantastic video once again! This was one of my favorite videos of yours. Love the abundance of quotes from Steinbeck himself and from the beginning of the novel. I read this in 2015 or 16 and I think it might be time to reread it. Grapes of wrath is one of my faves. Thanks for all you do, you are the best classics booktuber I can imagine ever existing.
This was a great commentary because you actually appreciate the book. Many folks on UA-cam approach the book as something to be cut apart without any humility. Good on you.
New member and taking advantage of the archives. What a treasure trove! I read Blood Meridian after Harold Bloom recommended it (though he did mention that upon his initial reading he had to put it down because of the extreme violence). What an understatement! So, I made my way through Blood Meridian for the second time last night while listening to your comments and lecture, Ben. Thank you so much for your insight. I am moving on to East of Eden because it’s the last Steinbeck book I have yet to read. How did this one get away from me?! Though the book club is ramping up with The Divine Comedy, I’m going to spend my time on East of Eden, as I have studied the Commedia extensively. I will try to catch up with the group on the next book after Dante. Ben, you mentioned that you would like newcomers to say hello to the group, so hello group!!! I look forward to getting to know some of you and that might be the best thing for me, though the literature is sure to be edifying. But as a super senior citizen, and a virtual recluse now, I have to admit that I need the intellectual stimulation of life-long learners. My husband passed away in 2014; he was an English PhD with his focus on Faulkner. What wonderful conversations we had until Alzheimer’s robbed him. OK, see you all in the comments!
This story comes to life unlike any other book I’ve read in a very long time. I read it in four days and I can’t get these characters out of my mind and heart. The images Steinbeck pens in this book creates a powerful world. I can’t wait to dive deeper.
Benjamin......come clean. What is the actual Hebrew meaning instead of "thou mayest", the one JS didn't quite get right? Since Jesus seems to be "there" in the Beginning, isn't it already baked into the cake that the Fall of Man is/was ALWAYS in the cards? You "may" gain the victory over sin, but Cain didn't. Or, as another put it, you can do what you like, but "things" will still turn out the way they do anyway. Yes, a Great book and a wonderful (and great) analysis of it. Thanks.
I used to be a born again Christian and studied the Bible a lot… I believe that God required a blood sacrifice from all of Adam and Eve’s descendants including Cain and Abel.. Abel understood this and offered a lamb… Cain showed his rebellion by offering God from his harvest… he should have purchased a lamb from Abel and offered God that instead.. That is why God rejected his offering.. it was not favouritism… Cain was showing disobedience to God. 👍🏻
East of Eden is thought-provoking, interesting, and engaging. I've only read it once. It was Steinbeck's personal most preferred work. Principally, he wrote it for his two young sons. I know I should read it again, and I will. It does, to some extent, grab me as a bit of a "soap opera," above all, especially in comparison with The Grapes of Wrath, in my opinion, a more palpable, effective, and influential work.
I don't care for Steinbeck. The reading is tedious. The only novel of his that I thought was interesting was Cannery Row. I'm American and I just don't like Steinbeck.
Oh I love East of Eden, but sadly I don't have time (or the money) to join the book club anymore. You inspired me to finally apply to Helsinki university to study literature, I am loving my studies so far. I won't let them rush me, I will keep on slow reading. Hope to join the book club again at some point, best of luck!
I just finished east of Eden. I read it on my own without any context (which is how I read a the “100 greatest books”) usually I’m entertained enough tossing the ideas around in my head, but I feel like I need to debrief EoE with someone. Do we think Steinbeck answers the question of why Kane’s (Kaleb) sacrifice isn’t accepted but Abel’s is? What I got from Kaleb and Aaron’s story is that some people are just liked because they’re likable, but those kind of people are dumb and uncomplicated like Aaron. Is the moral of the story just that there is no explanation, and the world is just an unjust place? Did I miss something
Just finished the audio. Glad to see it on the list. I think I’ll re-read the kindle version and follow along with the syllabus this year. If I’m consistent perhaps I’ll begin purchasing hardcovers going forward.
Hello :) I’m rereading this book but I now understand that I am not a visual thinker/reader and I realize that I love to read but I always feel like i’m missing out on something. My lack of visualization can make a story feel hollow for me. I was wondering if you had any advice?
My copy should arrive today, and I'm looking forward to reading it. This will be the first time reading this one. The only Steinbeck I have read is The Grapes of Wrath. I liked it in high school, but the nature scenes were a little long for me at that time. I'm a different reader now than I was back then, and I think I would have a different take on it if I were to pick it up today. I'm looking forward to reading East of Eden. The copy I ordered has Travels with Charlie in it and some other stories.
Wow, you are now at the top of my best of all time UA-camr. I just so happen to have East of Eden on my bookshelf that I bought years ago and have been contemplating reading it as my next read. I recently purchased one of the top best historical fiction for 2023 and now I am having to put that aside because you have me so piqued in reading East of Eden. Looking forward to our time together. This would be my first John Steinbeck read.
I am half way through the book and dislike it intently. Its like a US army manual! Steinbeck's view of women is dreadful. I hope to God all men don't see us that way.
Very illuminating! I read this on my own in high school and enjoyed it. But I knew nothing about the symbolism, allegory, clues and keys. I'm going to reread (40 years later) this book and see what I can unearth. Thank you for choosing an American classic to discuss.
Benjamin, thank you for this very motivating video as we enter the unforgettable world in East of Eden! I was delighted by your making a connection between Hardy and Steinbeck...how brilliant of you to have us read both this year! The use of landscape as character and employement of the sublime is why I absolutely love Hardy. This is my first Steinbeck novel, and am sure will not be my last. Cheers to a great kickoff to 2024 reading with HLBC!
Literally just started East of Eden a week ago and wished you had a video about it. Love your content, your passion inspires me to think deeper and “live” the books I read. Cheers 🥂
Read for the 1st time at your recommendation for classics of 2024. Read it in 4 evenings. I couldn't stop. Now I can't wait to reread as i follow your discussions!! Such beautiful writing.
fantastic video. i read East of Eden 30 years ago and i'm gearing up to read it again this year. i LOVE what you said about the best stories we've ever heard are from our own family history. that is so true. Bravo. thank you for this
I read some of his work years ago when I was doing it for an English class I was taking. I don’t think I was in the right frame of mind at the time to appreciate him. So, I’m taking this on as my first read with no expectations or opinions. I appreciate John’s usage of words and his sense of humor, and I find myself rereading certain parts to enjoy them again.
The next book I will begin is a reread of East of Eden. I will follow the advice you’ve given here. I’m looking forward to pulling more out of this story this time around.
I look forward to these videos you make. They're inspirational on both a secular and a spiritual level. Great literature ought to get to our visceral cores as well as our intellects and spirits. Most all the great classical tomes do. So thankful for all of them.
Oh wow how exciting! This will be my first ever time since subbing to the Patreon where I’ll actually be doing a re read with the rest of the club instead of a first time! East of Eden was absolutely enthralling and I can’t wait for the lecture series.
I had suffered a brain injury. I could not walk, talk, read, or write. I crawled about the floor of my house. I began to read Betrix Potter and The Just So Stories. I was able to receive books on tape from the library. I had loved Steinbeck previously. I ordered East of Eden. It engaged with my poor brain in such a way that my : overall well-being improved, I reconnected to the world, and yes my joy returned after several hellish years.😊
That is beautiful
You're a true inspiration to me Benjamin! What you do in this world is beautiful, heartfelt, important and forward thinking. These videos must be so much work to make!! I have a lot of respect for that and am so thankful to be able to follow your journey. Wishing you all the best for 2024 and all the awesome content coming up 🙏
Aw, thank you for such an incredibly beautiful comment! You have completely made my day. I hope you have an absolutely phenomenal 2024 too 🙏❤️
Salinas is my hometown, the Pastures of Heaven was my neighborhood growing up, Cannery Row was where I grew up and got my first job, and East of Eden was the final nail in the coffin that condemned me to be a lifelong Steinbeck fan.
When I was a kid doing beekeeping in my local 4-H club, I saw The Bee Movie in the Steinbeck memorial theater in downtown Salinas.
Thank you for delivering this brilliant work the justice it deserves.
Accidently finished it in 24 hours...I was stunned by its brilliance! Thank you for having the group read it this year.
Wow! Jessica, that's so awesome!! It sounds like Steinbeck completely captivated you ☺️
It completely bowled me over, I still haven't recovered.
I read it in a day as well. It’s been 45 years or so since I last read it. Now to start in again with his Letters.
How the hell do you read EOE in a day?
@@briangallagher3106 Haha! Logistically, an audiobook on double speed and a house that needs a spring cleaning. :)
How could I have lived for 77 years and never have read Steinbeck. Providence saved the sweetest until the last. I am home. Thank you .
Happy reading! I'd love to know what you make of it :)
I have lived for 64 years and never have met Benjamin McEvoy until now! It's never too late to be or do what you wanted to do in your and with you life. Thank you Benjamin!
I am 84 and I love this book. I came to it when i was just 15 or 16 . I didn't know who Steinbeck was then but I wanted to read his work because I had seen the films of The Grapes of Wrath and East of Eden. The scene of Cal 's birthday present to Adam still has me tearing up. It's so painful!
What a beautiful comment
I’m a first time reader of East of Eden, and it had me tearing up within a few pages…his writing is so beautiful!
Oh yeah i remember crying under 20 pages into it. The following almost 600 pages were no different lmao
only a quarter way through so far cause i had to keep pausing every few pages because, like you, it had me tearing up, too.
that 'she smiled at adam and he closed his eyes' line made a mess of me 😅 couldnt recover for quite awhile lmao
I read this book as a junior in college, and it completely changed my life. I'm currently in my second year of my American Literature PhD program, and this remains the best book I've ever read.
I have read East of Eden five times in my life and I know that I will continue to go back to this novel over and over again. I recently read War and Peace and it gave me that same epic feeling. Books like this can change your life and make you see the world differently. Going back to them with all the characters that you love is like going back to an old friend. You will learn something every time you reread it. Thank you for your videos. I love this channel, always look forward to a new video. ❤
Yes! Exactly! Well said.
What version of War and Peace did you read? I heard it makes a difference.
@@tootscarlson I read the penguin Anthony Briggs translation last year and it was great. I am currently rereading War and Peace with the footnotes and tangents book club. This time I chose the Louise and Aylmer Maude translation. There is definitely a difference between the two. They are both excellent, it just depends on your preference. All the french is translated in the Briggs translation, maybe it would be easier for a first read. I really feel like the Maude is more quotable and sounds more old timey. Hope that helps.
I read East of Eden about 8 years ago, loved it, and flew through it. However, after watching your lecture, I realized that I missed at least half, if not three-quarters of the book. This reminded me of a professor of a modern French literature course I took in university, who insisted that we read each book three times: the first time for the story, and the second and third times to really get to know the book. I am now excited to read East of Eden for the second time.
Your video just enlightened me about a scene on One Hundred Years of Solitude "blood crieth unto me from the ground". Talking about East of Eden i read interested in how Samuel would relate to Samuel the prophet, specially looking for the number 3, the number of times that God called him and I saw that Samuel has 3 strong shivers when he meets Cathy (maybe I'm seeing too much). Great video as always!
Benjamin's back with another banger. Many parallels between this one and the subject of another recent video of yours: Paradise Lost. Thank you for continuing to create such engaging content!
Thank you so much, Shrinesh! I really appreciate that. :) And beautiful insight! Paradise Lost and East of Eden are definitely incredibly complementary works!
A whole hour on how to read East of Eden. Wonderful! 😍
I love this channel.
Thank you so much! You have completely made my day, Roy 🙏☺️
This video was awesome, as always, Ben. And I think you should Show us your bookself(or shelves) for a great video. I think others will agree too! If yes then please like:
I got a new job and was reading E of E, and to my horror worked withna woman who embodied Cathy Ames!
I haven't read it yet, my next book, is being a Cathy Ames a good thing? 🫠?
@@Crypt0Band1t come on ...
I just joined the bookclub and I'm beyond excited to read East of Eden and share it with book lovers around the world 😄 what a great way to start the year ben! nothing better than spending the winter months with a big book
Thank you so much, Julia! I'm so thrilled you're excited for this one and cannot wait to hear what you make of it! I do love getting through the winter months with a sweeping saga ☺️
I adore the writings of John Steinbeck. I'm sure I've read everything he's published. I especially loved one that most people never touch which is travels with Charlie or a lovely lovely lovely book. I'm thankful to you for mentioning it maybe more people will read it. Best wishes Heidi in Atlanta
Ironically, I'm reading this independently and didn't know it was part of the HLBC right now! The detailed humanity of the characters, is breathtaking.
Very well put!
ready with my version in Spanish! Here in Spain could only find one edition with James Dean on the cover 😅. Hope the translation doesn’t disappoint. It’s 682 pages. I read in English but somehow wanted to grasp the full meaning of Steinbeck’s words. His Of Mice and Men shook me in high school. Can’t wait to read this one. Thanks for the video!
I have never had a work of literature move me so deeply.
Hey Ben,
Just had to drop a note to say your "Moby Dick" breakdown is gold. As a non-native English speaker, tackling those fancy words is a real challenge.
So, here's the real gem: the link between Jonah and Raskolnikov. Both stuck in tight spots, turning their backs on God, and drowning in angst. It's like they're cut from the same cloth - Jonah swallowed by the whale, Raskolnikov trapped in his tiny apartment.
Your insights opened my eyes to this unexpected connection
Greetings from Don Quikote's Spain,
Pablo.
I saw the movie 40 years ago and thought that was it. Then I found out that the movie is only the last ¼ of the book. So, 5 years ago I read the book.
OMG!! I did not know it was about MY family. My mother graduated from King City High School. My grandfather bought 20 acres not far from where Sam Hamilton had his land. Steinbeck’s description of Sam’s land was what I remembered of my grandfather’s land. He never made any money from it, and instead, my grandfather dug other people’s wells.
Hear me out and feel free to judge my ignorance but I am struggling to get through this book. Yes, it's beautifully written, but with the exception of Sam Hamilton, none of the characters are likeable and the only interesting story line is that of Cathy Ames.
The boys story line is like beating a dead horse to me - we already read this in the first half of the book with the first two brothers. I get it. Good vs. Evil. Cain and Abel. I'm so bored that I can't bring myself to pick the book back up.
Someone tell me why I should keep going other than it's a classic. I came here to try and understand what missing and I still don't get it.
Thanks for the great overview of that Steinbeck's pearl! Your videos fill me with passion for literature!
I have been reading books in English for half-a-year now and would be grateful if somebody acquainted with King Arthur legends could give me advice on some definitive and well-written version of those tales. For here in Russia we do not have enough information about English books, especially such of an old age)
As we say in Sweden, Benjamin, misunderstand me the right way 🙃 Your lovely voice puts me to sleep. I listen to you at night to fall asleep, then listen again the following day, for content.
And now you're talking about sleep... kinda freaky timing!
Thanks Ben!
Before reading the East of Eden I used to say I don´t have a number one book. After reading it I was sitting speechless for a while processing the experience ( perhaps with my mouth open)...
Since then I can say I have my favourite book, because it´s taken a very special place in my heart. It is just brilliant and I love Steinbeck ... I´ve read The Grapes of wrath (which is my favourite right behind the East of E.) and Of mice and men. Right now I am reading Travels with Charley and I would like to buy Steinbeck : A life in letters - I want to get to know him better as a person
Yes. I was stunned and had to process it first quite awhile.
I just finished Moby Dick a book that's not actually about whaling I happen to think the book is misnamed should be called Leviathan. East of Eden is my next Adventure.
Really wonderful video - I am now very excited to start East Of Eden. John Steinbeck so far is my favorite writer from the US. I loved Grapes of Wrath.
Didn't enjoy Of Mice and Men and The Pearl. Could not get through a chapter of Grapes of Wrath. Should I still give East of Eden a go?
Benjamin my good friend,
I wanted to take this opportunity and thank you so much for your beautiful Videos. You are simply the best and I have learned so much from you. You are an amazing professor. Thank you so much for everything you do. I really appreciate it.
Just bought the book. Ben, thanks for your videos, they are really high quality and motivating. Best
I'm so thrilled to hear that, Carmen! And thank you so much for your incredibly kind words ☺️🙏
I can separate my life by before and after reading this book - it affected me that deeply, and has informed my life to this day.
That's so beautiful! :)
My favorite book of all time. Thou mayest.
His simple prose style reminds me of Hemingway’s style.
I would say that the Patristic (i.e., Church Fathers) understanding of the fall into sin is less "Adam and Eve wanting to be like God" and more Adam and Eve wanting to be like God on their own terms.
Genesis tells that mankind was created in the image and likeness of God. Thus, in Classic Christian Theology, the attaining of the likeness (i.e., becoming like God) is the actual destiny of humanity.
However, God is God by Nature/Essence. We human beings can never be that. But we can be like God by grace, which is being partakers of the divine nature through the transfiguring grace that God pours into our hearts.
Seen in that light, the fall into sin was giving into the temptation to becoming like God by nature (i.e., on their own terms) instead of becoming God by grace (i.e., on the terms that were possible for creatures).
Becoming like God by divine grace is called Theosis or Divinization. And in Classic Christianity, Divinization, which entails union with God, is the essence of our Faith.
St. Athanasius thus said: God became man that man might become god.
That notion is found in Psalm 82:6, which says, "I have said, 'Ye are gods, and all of you are children of the Most High."
Thus, to be a Child of God, (i.e., to be united with Him) is to be a lower case god. In other words, to become a god with God in accordance with His will and in keeping with our nature as creatures, and His nature as being uncreated: the act of existing.
@@gy2gy246 Many if not most of the Church Fathers didn’t read Genesis literally, so that's not really new. Literal understandings of Genesis don't really get popular until after the Reformation thanks largely to Sola Scriptura as a guiding principle.
And it's hard to not get "too far into religion" when the argument being made is fundamentally of religious origin and substance.
I'm merely pointing that the idea/notion in question that East of Eden engages with is not_the_interpretation of Genesis. Instead, it's a newer one. And if one operates on the older, non-literal interpretive tradition, one would approach that key theme of this novel in a different way.
Thank you so much for another inspiring lecture. I first read East of Eden 60 years ago and loved it, not least because of the movie starring James Dean. Since then I have readmost if not all of Steinbeck's books. When I saw the title of your video I took my copy off the shelf and started to reread it, at the same time as reading Gravity's Rainbow. I can't agree that all the characters are psychologically complex. I think Cathy is a one note pony - all evil. Apparently based on his second wife, Gwen Conger, whose memoir'my Life with Steinbeck" is being published. A small gnit- picking thing. Steinbeck uses the omniscient narrator technique but somewhere in the first third of the book, the narrator becomes an I. This is Steinbeck's authorial voice interjecting a memoir of his own mother. This confused me. Was this fiction or memoir. The narrator becoming I didn't help the narrative. But I will continue to the end.
Having read The Grapes of Wrath earlier this year, I'm about to read East of Eden. Excited!
That's a powerful reading year right there! The Grapes of Wrath followed by East of Eden! I love it! :)
Thank you for your enthusiasm for lit, it is contagious
Thank you so much for watching, Peter! :)
Tom and Dessie Hamilton’s story ripped my heart out both times I read it.
Dear Ben,
I got interested about East of Eden from your Reading List of 2024, and have started this novel last week. This is very captivating, so far. Just got till Chapter 7. This is my first Steinbeck, and am loving it. :)
Thanks again, and keep up the great work you're doing. :) :)
Truly amazing video. You have increased my love for a novel I didn't think I could love more.
Wow, thank you so much, Tyler! You have made my day :)
I LOVE THIS BOOK!!! I'm so glad you finally did an episode on East of Eden
One of my top books of all time!
Great 1st lecture on the masterpiece that is East of Eden, Ben, on some days my absolute favourite book.
On Chapter 4 and I will look for the keys now that I'm reading on a deeper level!
As always, loving your Patreon Book Club.
Looking forward to the next lecture.
All the best, Ruth 😍👏
Am new to the book club and have started reading East of Eden for the first time... great read so far and your intro has just blown my mind in terms of the biblical linkages... in a 'timing is everything' twist- have also recently started reading the bible- and just finished Genesis... but now I want to go back and re-read that with your commentary in mind! Thanks for a great intro!
Hahaha I literally finished the book just this morning! Well I can watch this for next time.
Wow! Nice one :) I hope you enjoyed it!
Wow! Great video I appreciate how much detail you go into. I haven’t even finished east of eden yet but this video makes me more that excited to finish it😄
Thank you so much!! I really appreciate that :) I'm thrilled you're loving East of Eden!!
This is the first book you’ve talked about that I’ve actually read before, and it was the book that I first read when I became interested in literature.
A wonderfully written novel.
Steinbeck made me think of places on the earth that only I know about. I liked the book and I liked your advise.
Thank you so much. That's such a beautiful review of your experience of Steinbeck.
What a magnificent appetizer this was! I read this book as a teenager in a different language, different country, different continent. I don't remember much of it, except how much it moved me at the time. What a pleasure to discover it almost 25 years later, in the original, with Ben and the Hardcore Literature members.
Read this last year and fell absolutely head over heels for it. Brilliant work and an instant favourite. Plus i just got The Grape of Wrath for christmas so i’ll be picking that up very soon (probably after i finish Jane Eyre which im quite liking)
Recently joined the book club and I am listening to EoE on my long commutes. Then I pick up the book at home to reread and mark certain passages. I think this will become one of my all time favorite books. Thank you for the introduction.
Fantastic video once again! This was one of my favorite videos of yours. Love the abundance of quotes from Steinbeck himself and from the beginning of the novel. I read this in 2015 or 16 and I think it might be time to reread it. Grapes of wrath is one of my faves. Thanks for all you do, you are the best classics booktuber I can imagine ever existing.
Happy New Year! May you continue to be a supportive leader and the reader friend we adore ❤
Aw, thank you so much! A very Happy New Year to you too! 🙏❤
My favourite novel ever! Just beautiful and gripping and thematically momentous.
This is much better than other commentaries on this amazing book because you actually take the Genesis narratives seriously. Good job.
This was a great commentary because you actually appreciate the book. Many folks on UA-cam approach the book as something to be cut apart without any humility. Good on you.
Thank you so much, Duane! I really appreciate that so deeply ☺️🙏
This is my favorite novel, and I've read it several times.
New member and taking advantage of the archives. What a treasure trove! I read Blood Meridian after Harold Bloom recommended it (though he did mention that upon his initial reading he had to put it down because of the extreme violence). What an understatement! So, I made my way through Blood Meridian for the second time last night while listening to your comments and lecture, Ben. Thank you so much for your insight. I am moving on to East of Eden because it’s the last Steinbeck book I have yet to read. How did this one get away from me?! Though the book club is ramping up with The Divine Comedy, I’m going to spend my time on East of Eden, as I have studied the Commedia extensively. I will try to catch up with the group on the next book after Dante. Ben, you mentioned that you would like newcomers to say hello to the group, so hello group!!! I look forward to getting to know some of you and that might be the best thing for me, though the literature is sure to be edifying. But as a super senior citizen, and a virtual recluse now, I have to admit that I need the intellectual stimulation of life-long learners. My husband passed away in 2014; he was an English PhD with his focus on Faulkner. What wonderful conversations we had until Alzheimer’s robbed him. OK, see you all in the comments!
This story comes to life unlike any other book I’ve read in a very long time. I read it in four days and I can’t get these characters out of my mind and heart. The images Steinbeck pens in this book creates a powerful world. I can’t wait to dive deeper.
My favourite novel ever! Just beautiful and gripping and thematically momentous.
I literally bought this last week, what a perfectly timed coincidence! Can't wait to give it a go.
That's fantastic timing! I'd love to know what you make of it :)
Benjamin......come clean. What is the actual Hebrew meaning instead of "thou mayest", the one JS didn't quite get right?
Since Jesus seems to be "there" in the Beginning, isn't it already baked into the cake that the Fall of Man is/was ALWAYS in the cards? You "may" gain the victory over sin, but Cain didn't. Or, as another put it, you can do what you like, but "things" will still turn out the way they do anyway.
Yes, a Great book and a wonderful (and great) analysis of it.
Thanks.
John Steinbeck is so intimidating to read.😢 My 3 books are just waiting in vain.
I used to be a born again Christian and studied the Bible a lot… I believe that God required a blood sacrifice from all of Adam and Eve’s descendants including Cain and Abel.. Abel understood this and offered a lamb… Cain showed his rebellion by offering God from his harvest… he should have purchased a lamb from Abel and offered God that instead.. That is why God rejected his offering.. it was not favouritism… Cain was showing disobedience to God. 👍🏻
East of Eden is thought-provoking, interesting, and engaging. I've only read it once. It was Steinbeck's personal most preferred work. Principally, he wrote it for his two young sons. I know I should read it again, and I will. It does, to some extent, grab me as a bit of a "soap opera," above all, especially in comparison with The Grapes of Wrath, in my opinion, a more palpable, effective, and influential work.
I don't care for Steinbeck. The reading is tedious. The only novel of his that I thought was interesting was Cannery Row. I'm American and I just don't like Steinbeck.
Oh I love East of Eden, but sadly I don't have time (or the money) to join the book club anymore. You inspired me to finally apply to Helsinki university to study literature, I am loving my studies so far. I won't let them rush me, I will keep on slow reading. Hope to join the book club again at some point, best of luck!
I just finished east of Eden. I read it on my own without any context (which is how I read a the “100 greatest books”) usually I’m entertained enough tossing the ideas around in my head, but I feel like I need to debrief EoE with someone.
Do we think Steinbeck answers the question of why Kane’s (Kaleb) sacrifice isn’t accepted but Abel’s is?
What I got from Kaleb and Aaron’s story is that some people are just liked because they’re likable, but those kind of people are dumb and uncomplicated like Aaron.
Is the moral of the story just that there is no explanation, and the world is just an unjust place? Did I miss something
Brilliant video. So compelling. Steinberg is well deserve to be one of the best.
Thank you so much, my friend :)
I am on chapter 22. 😮
Just finished the audio. Glad to see it on the list. I think I’ll re-read the kindle version and follow along with the syllabus this year. If I’m consistent perhaps I’ll begin purchasing hardcovers going forward.
I recommend trying to read along with 'Journal of a novel' by Steinbeck. Such a unique experience
Hello :) I’m rereading this book but I now understand that I am not a visual thinker/reader and I realize that I love to read but I always feel like i’m missing out on something. My lack of visualization can make a story feel hollow for me. I was wondering if you had any advice?
My copy should arrive today, and I'm looking forward to reading it. This will be the first time reading this one. The only Steinbeck I have read is The Grapes of Wrath. I liked it in high school, but the nature scenes were a little long for me at that time. I'm a different reader now than I was back then, and I think I would have a different take on it if I were to pick it up today. I'm looking forward to reading East of Eden. The copy I ordered has Travels with Charlie in it and some other stories.
Anyone who enjoyed East of Eden might also enjoy Theodore Dreiser's An American Tragedy. I'd love to see a review of that book by Benjamin.
I have learned so much watching this. Thank you
Wow, you are now at the top of my best of all time UA-camr. I just so happen to have East of Eden on my bookshelf that I bought years ago and have been contemplating reading it as my next read. I recently purchased one of the top best historical fiction for 2023 and now I am having to put that aside because you have me so piqued in reading East of Eden. Looking forward to our time together. This would be my first John Steinbeck read.
First time East of Eden reader here. I’m 12 days behind 😅 but I’m excited and I can’t wait to start. Thank you so much for this masterclass!
I am half way through the book and dislike it intently. Its like a US army manual! Steinbeck's view of women is dreadful. I hope to God all men don't see us that way.
I'm halfway in. It only took me three months
That's amazing! Nice one :)
Very illuminating! I read this on my own in high school and enjoyed it. But I knew nothing about the symbolism, allegory, clues and keys. I'm going to reread (40 years later) this book and see what I can unearth. Thank you for choosing an American classic to discuss.
Benjamin, thank you for this very motivating video as we enter the unforgettable world in East of Eden! I was delighted by your making a connection between Hardy and Steinbeck...how brilliant of you to have us read both this year! The use of landscape as character and employement of the sublime is why I absolutely love Hardy. This is my first Steinbeck novel, and am sure will not be my last. Cheers to a great kickoff to 2024 reading with HLBC!
Literally just started East of Eden a week ago and wished you had a video about it. Love your content, your passion inspires me to think deeper and “live” the books I read. Cheers 🥂
Wow! That's fantastic serendipity :) Thank you so much for your kind words, Michael! That really means a lot to me!
Steinbeck is my favorite. Way better than Russian novels imo. Makes you feel so much better.
Read for the 1st time at your recommendation for classics of 2024. Read it in 4 evenings. I couldn't stop. Now I can't wait to reread as i follow your discussions!! Such beautiful writing.
fantastic video. i read East of Eden 30 years ago and i'm gearing up to read it again this year. i LOVE what you said about the best stories we've ever heard are from our own family history. that is so true. Bravo. thank you for this
I read some of his work years ago when I was doing it for an English class I was taking. I don’t think I was in the right frame of mind at the time to appreciate him. So, I’m taking this on as my first read with no expectations or opinions. I appreciate John’s usage of words and his sense of humor, and I find myself rereading certain parts to enjoy them again.
The next book I will begin is a reread of East of Eden. I will follow the advice you’ve given here. I’m looking forward to pulling more out of this story this time around.
Steinbecks characters leap out the page, so much so, time flies by and leads me to think I'm reading East of Eden too fast,
I look forward to these videos you make. They're inspirational on both a secular and a spiritual level. Great literature ought to get to our visceral cores as well as our intellects and spirits. Most all the great classical tomes do. So thankful for all of them.
I just finished this novel. It profoundly affected me and I am still trying to process it all. I truly will never be the same after this one.
Was the hardcore literature discussion/lecture recorded and can we still watch it?
Hi Grace! It was indeed! All lectures are recorded and always available to enjoy on demand at your own pace ☺️
@@BenjaminMcEvoy thank you! Can’t wait 🙏
Hi, am I able to join you book club for one month only while you are reading this book? Thanks
Hi Ben, is there a way I can join the book club for just the month you read East of Eden? Thank you
I first read East of Eden 58 years ago
I adore John Steinbeck but haven't read this one. You have inspired me to dp so, thank you
I'm so happy to hear that! You'll love this one, Sunita! :)
Thank you for posting a new video ❤️
Thank you so much for watching ❤️
Oh wow how exciting! This will be my first ever time since subbing to the Patreon where I’ll actually be doing a re read with the rest of the club instead of a first time! East of Eden was absolutely enthralling and I can’t wait for the lecture series.
Thank you for this fantastic exposé
Gollum also really was inspired by Cain, wasn't he
I absolutely think so! :)
Brilliant video!
Thank you so much, Cora :)