1. Rural Setting: The story is set in a rural valley, emphasizing a connection to the land and a focus on practical matters. Elisa, the protagonist, is described as a "strong woman," implying hard work and physical labor are integral to their lives.
2. Isolation and Limited Social Interaction: Elisa and her husband Henry live on a farm, isolated from the rest of the world. They experience little social interaction, with the exception of a brief encounter with the traveling tinker. This reinforces the sense of self-sufficiency and simplicity in their daily lives.
3. Focus on Domestic Chores and Gardening: Elisa's life revolves around her home and garden. She takes pride in her chrysanthemum plants, nurturing them with care and dedication. This highlights the importance of domestic duties and self-reliance.
4. Simple Material Possessions: Elisa's home is described as "plain and comfortable," suggesting a lack of material wealth and focus on practicality. She owns a few prized possessions, such as her chrysanthemums and her husband's car, but they are not indicative of lavish living.
5. Limited Education and Worldly Experience: Elisa's limited education and lack of experience outside her rural community highlight the simplicity of their lives. She has a limited perspective on the world, and her dreams are shaped by her environment.
6. Acceptance of Routine and Tradition: The story depicts a life of repetitive routines and adherence to traditional values. Elisa's daily activities and her husband's work are predictable and largely unchanging.
7. Connection to Nature: Steinbeck emphasizes the beauty and significance of the natural world in their lives. Elisa's connection to her garden and the surrounding landscape reflects a simple appreciation for the beauty of nature.
Through these details, Steinbeck paints a picture of a simple life, focused on self-sufficiency, domesticity, and a strong connection to the land. While this lifestyle may seem idyllic to some, it also hints at a sense of isolation, limited opportunity, and a yearning for something more.