Perhaps you are thinking of Noah Joad, the youngest son of the Joad family. He is a young, simple man who struggles with intellectual disabilities. While not a major character, Noah plays a significant role in the story, highlighting themes of family, hardship, and survival.
Here's a breakdown of Noah's role:
* He represents the fragility of life and the struggles of those with disabilities: Noah's mental limitations make it difficult for him to navigate the harsh realities of the Dust Bowl and the journey to California. His struggles illustrate the vulnerability of the marginalized and the importance of family support.
* His departure from the family signifies the harsh realities of the journey: He feels overwhelmed by the challenges and chooses to leave the family to live a simpler life by himself. This reflects the immense strain the journey places on the family and the personal sacrifices they have to make.
* He represents the search for connection and meaning: Despite his limitations, Noah seeks connection and meaning in life, finding it through his work and the natural world. His simple joys and connection to nature offer a contrasting perspective to the family's struggles.
If you are interested in learning more about Noah's character, I recommend revisiting the novel.