Argument- Steinbeck uses other literature or personal experiences to create his characters relationships in his literature. Claim- The story East of Eden alludes to the story of Cain and Abel in the book of Genesis, which gives the audience a familiar work to refer to. Evidence-"The story of Cain and Abel, Lee said to Adam and Sam, 'is the symbol story of the human soul,' 'the best-known story in the world because it is everybody's story.' "

Argument- John Steinbeck's use of friendships through out his books reflected his personal life. Claim- The friendships in Steinbeck's personal life created similar relationships of his character's that him and his editor Covici had.  Evidence-"An early example of Covici, as editor, suggesting a manuscript change, and of Steinbeck reacting defensively and vigorously though not in anger, may be seen in an exchange in 1939 involving the closing scene in The Grapes of Wrath..."