* He saw their struggles firsthand: Steinbeck was born into a family of modest means and lived through the Great Depression. He witnessed the devastating effects of poverty and felt a deep empathy for those who suffered.
* He wanted to give a voice to the voiceless: Steinbeck believed that the stories of the poor and marginalized were often ignored or misrepresented. He sought to give them a platform and show their humanity and resilience.
* He aimed to expose social injustices: Steinbeck was a social critic and used his writing to expose the inequalities and injustices that created poverty and suffering. He hoped to raise awareness and inspire change.
* He explored themes of compassion and empathy: Steinbeck's stories often explored the power of human connection and the importance of compassion in a world filled with hardship. He showed that even in the midst of poverty, people could find strength and support in each other.
* He believed in the power of storytelling: Steinbeck recognized the power of stories to connect people, evoke emotions, and spark dialogue. He hoped his writing would help readers understand the struggles of the poor and promote social change.
Ultimately, Steinbeck's commitment to writing about the poor stemmed from his deep sense of empathy, his desire to advocate for justice, and his belief in the transformative power of storytelling. His works continue to resonate with readers today because they speak to the universal human experiences of struggle, resilience, and the search for meaning and connection.