Chapter 28

Steinbeck uses scripture from Ecclesiastes 4:8-12 to once again illustrate the need for working together. Read the following passage:

"There was a man all alone; he had neither son nor brother. There was no end to his toil, yet his eyes were not content with his wealth. "For whom am I toiling," he asked, "and why am I depriving myself of enjoyment? This too is meaningless--a miserable business! Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken."

Discuss a time in your own life when you have either helped a friend who has "fallen" or you have defended a friend who would have been "overpowered" without you. Note: it may have been a verbal defense, not a physical defense. Be sure to read each other's answers!