Tom Joad

"You know where I come from." The driver was silent. "Dont you?" Joad insisted pg. 12

I think that this shows that he is very a very honest person and he knows what people must be thinking about him and hes open about it. It shows how he handles his personal image and that hes not ashamed.

"An old turtle," he said. "Picked him up on the road. An old bulldozer. Thought Id take 'im to my little brother. Kids like turtles." pg. 21

I think this quote is important because you can tell early on into meeting him that he thought about his family, and wanted to bring something to his little brother. I think it reveals how much he cares about his family in a small way.

"We was drunk," Joad said softly....Fust thing I see is Herb comin' for me again with his knife. They was this here shovel leanin' against the schoolhouse, so I grabbed it an' smacked 'im over the head. I never had nothing against Herb." pg. 53

This is where he actually gives details about what happened the night he killed someone and how it happened. The author indicates he spoke softly and since he said he had nothing against Herb himself, it gives you a better idea about his feelings on the whole incident. He doesnt regret it (told that to the trucker), but it seems like he feels at least a little remorseful.

"Ever' word you say is sense. But Jesus, I hate to get pushed around! I lots rather take a sock at Willy." pg. 58

This quote shows that he doesnt like to get pushed around and would rather take the risk of going back to jail than be bossed around and harassed by the sheriff. His morals are more important than the risk of jail.