The Holiness of All Life

Explores Jim Casy's philosophy that all life is holy and interconnected, and how this idea is realized in the novel's climax.

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Casy's Revelation

The Philosophy The Wilderness Casy goes into the wilderness to think. He realizes that all life is one. He says, "There was the hills, an' there was me, an' we wasn't separate no more." The Holy Spirit Casy redefines the Holy Spirit as the human spirit. He believes that love for people is holy. He rejects traditional religion. The Implication If all life is holy, then no one is separate. Everyone is part of one big soul. This idea becomes the novel's moral foundation.

Casy's Practice

The Application The Grace Casy says a grace that is not a prayer. He speaks of the holiness of breakfast and love. He lives his philosophy. The Sacrifice Casy sacrifices himself for others. He takes the blame for Floyd. He dies for the strikers. His actions reflect his belief. The Influence Casy's philosophy influences Tom. Tom later says he will be everywhere. The idea of universal connection spreads.

The Final Realization

The Act The Barn Rose of Sharon breastfeeds a starving man. This act is the ultimate expression of the holiness of life. She gives life to a stranger. The Connection The act transcends family, class, and individuality. It is a moment of pure connection. All life is one. The Meaning The novel ends with this image. It is the realization of Casy's philosophy. The holiness of all life is affirmed.

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