In a society predominantly led by men, most women do not have much of a say. They follow orders swiftly and obediently; somewhat like cadets taking orders from their commanding officers. During the 1930s, women were under physical and emotional control by their male counterparts. Steinbeck illustrates this in "The Chrysanthemums" and Elisa's desire to break free from constricting gender stereotypes. Elisa, the story's protagonist, lived on a farm, far away from the rest of civilization; the only time she was able to communicate to people, besides her husband, was either when others came to buy their crop or to fix broken items on the farm. This led to a life lacking social communication and isolation of her feelings. With no kids and no communication to the outside world, Elisa is unable to express her true feelings and Ideas. .
Henry, Elisa's husband, represses her thoughts by saying what he believes Elisa will respond to his questions. "What's the matter Elisa? Do you want to go? I don't think you'd like it, but I'll take you if you really want to go" (248). Henry believes that Elisa would not actually like the fights, but in reality she is longing for something to do that is more exhilarating than staying on the farm all day and tending to crops and animals. Of course taking place during the time period of the 30s, Elisa goes along with what her husband says because women are expected to go with what the male in the relationship decides to do.
Even when Elisa is not isolated from her true thoughts she gets shut down by others and eventually feels guilty for even sharing her opinion on a topic. When the tinkerer comes and looks for work he smooth talks Elisa into opening up about her Chrysanthemums. Acting like he knows what he is talking about gets Elisa to pour her thoughts and feelings out to him. "It's the budding that takes the most careIt's when you're picking off the buds you don't want.
