Lee Chong could very easily go after the people in Cannery Row and collect on the debts he is owed, but he chooses instead to let the money come back to him gradually. Doc is happy with his station in life and in the community (but many worry about his being lonely without a companion). Mack and the boys at the Palace Flophouse need little and appreciate much, and whatever they do need they acquire by cunning and oftentimes stealing. Their transformation into an organised group in order to do something nice for Doc shows the value of comradeship and sociality. After a failed first attempt, where Doc is not even present, their second attempt is more successful. Mack and the boys work together to plan a party for Doc. ( November 2022) ( Learn how and when to remove this template message) Statements consisting only of original research should be removed. Please improve it by verifying the claims made and adding inline citations. This section possibly contains original research. These constitute subplots that unfold concurrently with the main plot.

A procession of linked vignettes describes the denizens' lives on Cannery Row. In an effort to return to Doc's good graces, Mack and the boys decide to throw another party-but make it work this time. Unfortunately, the party rages out of control, and Doc's lab and home are ruined-and so is Doc's mood. Mack hits on the idea that they should throw a thank-you party, and the entire community quickly becomes involved. A film version was released in 1982 and a stage version was produced in 1995.Ĭannery Row has a simple premise: Mack and his friends are to do something nice for their friend Doc, who has been good to them without asking for reward. The actual location Steinbeck was writing about, Ocean View Avenue in Monterey, was later renamed 'Cannery Row' in honor of the book. The story revolves around the people living there: Lee Chong, the local grocer Doc, a marine biologist and Mack, the leader of a group of derelict people.

It is set during the Great Depression in Monterey, California, on a street lined with sardine canneries that is known as Cannery Row.

Cannery Row is a novel by American author John Steinbeck, published in 1945.

Cannery row novel by john steinbeck