In literature we often encounter the need for acknowledgement. The act of recognition is the process of the memory that identifies an object or person. Also appreciation and attention or caring towards other people is an act of cognizance. We see this idea of acceptance in Ernest Hemmingway’s "A Clean Well-Lighted Place", as an old man drinks in a café to be credited by society as important. This is also seen in John Updike’s "A & P", as Sammy tries to find recognition for his maturing age. This powerful need for appreciation from other human beings is strongly illustrated in John Steinbeck’s "The Chrysanthemums", as Elisa searches and explores for commendation in a stranger. In this work John Steinbeck develops the idea that recognition is vital to a prosperous, flourishing life. It is the fuel that we all strive for and if not found we will become diminished and powerless.
Being appreciated by those we love is an element of human existence. In being acknowledged by her husband, Elisa’s "eyes sharpened" and she continued to say; "[m]aybe I could do it, too. I’ve a gift with things, all right. My mother had it. She could stick anything in the ground and make it grow" (Pg. 1261). In this Elisa feels appreciated by her h
All life is a battle for recognition; this is a vital need that shapes or missshapes our lives. If we as human beings are not able to have appreciation from others, then we will lead ourselves into eventual and tragic lives. Yet if this need is full filled we will live prosperous and flourishing lives. That is the gem at the heart of John Steinbeck’s "The Chrysanthemums."
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