What is the thematic and symbolic significance of The Moon is Down?

The book The Moon is
Down by John Steinbeck possesses both thematic and symbolic significance.
The thematic significance of this book is its theme that the general public is
more powerful than an army. This theme is reinforced by all of the rebellious
acts of the people against the soldiers that occupy them, such as attacking the
soldiers and using explosives to destroy the supply routes of the army to drive them away(Steinbeck 84). It also shows that they can use emotional warfare as well as physical.
For example, in this book one of the soldiers goes crazy due to all the hate
the civilians feel for them (Steinbeck 61). He had been mentally exhausted by
always having to watch his back and not trusting anyone (Steinbeck 61). By the
success of the people in wearing down the army, it shows that the soldiers are
not all powerful. This theme could influence other people that are stuck under
military occupation, and inspire them to have acts of rebellion against their
oppressors.

Not only does The Moon is Down by John Steinbeck have thematic significance,
but it also has symbolic significance. The symbolic significance of this comes
from the stage setting conditions in the book. At the beginning of the book,
the mayor’s living room is described as being warm yet elegant (Steinbeck 1).
This is when the army has not yet fully taken over. Yet, as more time passes
the room slowly begins to change. As the soldiers set up headquarters in the
living room, the beautiful furnishings are taken away along with the people’s
freedom (Steinbeck 21). The room becomes littered with the army’s technology
and weapons (Steinbeck 21). Slowly the room begins to be described as cold and
unwelcoming, a far cry from what it once was (Steinbeck 57). This change
represents the army’s takeover and general mood around the town. The people too
have lost their warmth and happiness. In addition to this, they have also lost
their grandeur and pride.

Bibliography: Steinbeck, John. The Moon Is Down. New York. Penguin Group USA, 2009. Print