John Steinbeck's novels presented significant societal critiques, focusing on the struggles of the working class and the impact of economic hardship. Works like "The Grapes of Wrath" highlighted the injustices faced by migrant workers during the Great Depression, exposing the stark realities of poverty and inequality. Steinbeck's storytelling emphasized the importance of community and human dignity in the face of adversity, reflecting a profound empathy for marginalized individuals. His narratives often interrogated the American dream, questioning its attainability for those on the fringes of society, and aimed to inspire social change.