East of Eden by John Steinbeck — The Best Novel Ever?

*MAJOR SPOILERS AHEAD*

Grace is back (after a long-hiatus) to ramble about her new favourite novel, East of Eden (1952) by Nobel-prize winning author John Steinbeck. This episode gives a general overview of the book, the major plot-points, and the psychological/philosophical implications. 

Set in the rich farmland of Salinas Valley, California, East of Eden follows the intertwined destinies of two families — the Trasks and the Hamiltons — whose generations helplessly re-enact the fall of Adam and Eve and the poisonous rivalry of Cain and Abel. The allegory, which is the use of hidden moral meanings, teaches the theme that man is flawed but can find forgiveness by way of free will.

DISCLAIMER: The following episode contains major spoilers and is representative of my personal interpretation of the novel. In addition, please ignore any factual mistakes in the retelling of the storyline as this episode was conducted without a script :)