John Steinbeck's In Dubious Battle follows in keeping with the subject matters of his other novels. The plot centers around the workers' rights movement in central California during the 30s, with a special emphasis upon the new recruit, Jim Nolan. As the workers struggle to establish themselves as a respectable, legitimate organization with the community, they face staunch and often violent opposition. Under Doc McLeod's leadership the Party hopes to spread to neighboring counties and even to other fields, like cotton.
In his participation in the workers' rights movement, Jim observes the overbearing significance of reputation. He signs on because he's persuaded by a handsome guy named Harry Nilson, but once on board Jim notices how the Party is despised by the locals. They don't believe the fruit pickers are trustworthy or respectable, often fearing violent revolts. In an attempt to create a more favorable reputation, Doc establishes a headquarters on an apple farm, earning the necessary government sanctions and maintaining the legitimacy of the group.
Nevertheless, the workers only seem to gain headway when tragedy strikes. First it's the injury of old Dan, a beloved member of the community, who fell off a ladder and injured himself without receiving any compensation. Later, at the end of the novel, Jim watches Doc calculate waning support and decide to use another man's -- Joy, a longterm workers' rights advocate -- funeral as a mobilization opportunity. In both cases violence precedes support.
Steinbeck's writing has long been applauded for its realism. He observed injustice in the migrant community and dedicated his authorship to its exposure to the public. In Dubious Battle distinguishes itself from Steinbeck's other works because of its emphasis upon community. Although Jim is the protagonist, his personal narrative takes a backseat when compared to the struggle of the workers' rights movement. In a sense, Jim surrenders his ego to participate in this organization, becoming just another member. His participation, however, proves essential to the workers' success because his exterior perspective lends a certain dimension of depth to the otherwise somewhat one note cause of Doc and his followers.
