The Virus of Restlessness

“I saw in their eyes something I was to see over and over in every part of the nation—a burning desire to go, to move, to get under way, anyplace, away from Here.” (p.771/15)


I found it interesting that Steinbeck noted this “virus of restlessness” (p.767/13) everywhere he went, in all different types of people across America. Not only were old men prone to fidget, but young boys as well. (Recall the small boy who hungrily eyed the Rocinante for days straight.) The listless waitress he met talked of Florida and his very own neighbors spoke of moving away from something. It appears as though, deep down, practically everyone itches for something more (or something other than what they have). Why do you think this is?