Tom Joad's Destiny

Traces Tom Joad's arc from ex-convict to fugitive to committed activist, embodying the novel's call for collective action.

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Paroled Killer

The Return The Release Tom Joad is released from McAlester prison after serving four years for homicide. He is paroled and cannot leave Oklahoma. He hitches a ride home, wearing new prison clothes. The Family Reunion Tom finds his family preparing to go to California. He is welcomed, but his mother worries about his anger. Tom insists he is not bitter. He wants to start over. The Parole Restriction Tom knows that crossing the state line violates his parole. He is taking a risk. The threat of being sent back to prison hangs over him. His freedom is conditional.

Learning from Casy

The Education The Preacher's Ideas Tom listens to Jim Casy's philosophy of universal love and collective action. Casy speaks of the holiness of all people. Tom is skeptical but intrigued. The Witness Tom sees injustice at every turn: the deputy at the Hooverville, the strikebreaking at the Hooper ranch. He begins to understand the need for change. The Transformation Casy's death is the catalyst. Tom kills the vigilante and becomes a fugitive. He decides to carry on Casy's work. His personal journey becomes a political one.

Fugitive and Activist

The Mission The Hiding Tom hides in a brush cave. Ma brings him food. He reflects on Casy's teachings. He decides to leave to protect his family and to fight for justice. The Farewell Tom tells Ma he will be present wherever people struggle. He quotes Ecclesiastes. He says he will be in the fight for food, in the laughter of children. Ma gives him her blessing. The Departure Tom leaves into the night. His destiny is now tied to the larger movement. He is no longer just a man; he is a symbol of resistance. His fate is uncertain, but his purpose is clear.

beginning of the novel

throughout the journey

after the killing, near the end