Prompt: How do the chrysanthemums and other symbols displayed throughout the short story demonstrate the role of women in society? A Potential for Equality Humans, just like flowers, require sunlight to thrive. They also need nourishment to grow, and most importantly, they need careful attention in order to flourish. Similar to the chrysanthemums depicted in John Steinbeck’s short story “The Chrysanthemums,” the protagonist Emily strives to remain resilient and meaningful. The setting and the overall mood of the characters reinforce the analogy between Emily and her chrysanthemums.
Steinbeck portrays Elijah as encountering numerous challenges, including an oblivious husband and a limited understanding of the world. The author further develops Elijah’s perception of herself as a woman in society through his depiction of the setting, his use of an ignorant tone, and his utilization of symbolism. In describing the setting as both “cold and tender” and devoid of sunshine, Steinbeck not only evokes a somber atmosphere, but also symbolizes Elijah’s invisibility within society (Steinbeck 1).
Despite her talents being hidden by a “lid of fog,” Elise is viewed as ordinary by her husband, Henry, and society at large (Steinbeck 2). Although Henry fulfills the role of a provider and treats Elise with a superficial level of respect, Elise yearns for a deeper understanding and appreciation from him (Steinbeck 7). The story demonstrates Henry’s unawareness of Elise’s hard work when he comments on her skill with chrysanthemums.
Elise encounters discouragement from Henry whenever she aims to set higher goals, such as expanding their farm to include other crops. Upon Henry’s comment “well, it sure works with the flowers,” Elise’s initial reaction reflects the confidence and willingness typically associated with men. However, each opportunity serves as a reminder that she is a woman, as expressed in Dickinson’s statement that “with given each opportunity, she is forever reminded that she is a woman” (3). Elise’s satisfaction with her “strong” chrysanthemum crop stems from the perceived manliness implied by the word, yet her husband brings her back to her femininity by suggesting dinner in town (3-4).
This passage illustrates Henry’s lack of support for his wife’s ambitions. The chrysanthemums in the hidden valley cannot reach their full potential without sunlight, much like Elise is held back by her husband’s lack of encouragement. Initially, Elise rebuffs the tinker, claiming she has nothing for him to work on. However, when he notices her chrysanthemums, she becomes vulnerable and exposes her feminine side. She allows her emotions to control her and releases her masculine facade, embracing her central feminine sexuality. Elise gives the chrysanthemums to the tinker as a symbolic gesture of giving herself away, but he disregards and dismisses both. This rejection mirrors how society rejects women as nothing more than caretakers and mothers (Dickinson 4). Like the chrysanthemums, Elise is seen as inconsequential, merely meant to beautify the world. Elise strives to prove herself deserving of the same opportunities men enjoy, but just as the chrysanthemums are overlooked, so is she.
The chrysanthemums in Steinbeck’s story are not only a crucial part of Elise’s identity in society, but also symbolize the daily struggles faced by women. Just like a chrysanthemum requires nourishment, Elise fights for recognition and praise, yearning to be treated as an equal. However, she is often disregarded and seen as insignificant simply because she is a woman. At the beginning of the narrative, Elise is described as “lean and strong,” sporting heavy clothing, clod-hopper shoes, and a man’s black hat pulled low over her eyes (Steinbeck 3).
Steinbeck describes Elijah as “eager and mature and handsome” (Steinbeck 3), highlighting her desire to be treated equally and recognized as a man. The effort and devotion she puts into her chrysanthemums serve as a source of empowerment for her, yet also symbolize both her and Elise’s limited opportunities. Elise’s bond with her chrysanthemums is evident throughout the narrative.
Not only do the flowers require a significant amount of Elise’s time to maintain, but they also symbolize her role in society in a figurative sense. The physical appearances of the flowers, as well as their overall meaning to the world, bear similarities to Elise. Chrysanthemums are commonly associated with optimism and joy, emotions that Elise experiences while caring for her flowers. Additionally, the flowers are perennials, returning year after year, just like the recurring theme of Elijah’s pursuit for equality.
