Paradise (1933 essay) facts for kids

Paradise is an essay written by the famous novelist James M. Cain in 1933. It was published in a magazine called American Mercury.

This essay is a non-fiction piece. It describes what Southern California was like during the Great Depression. James M. Cain had recently moved to the West Coast from the East Coast. He grew up in Annapolis, Maryland.

In Paradise, Cain shares his thoughts on California's land, weather, buildings, food, and the people living there. Most of these people were first or second-generation residents of the Los Angeles area. Cain thought positively about the region and its future. He wrote that there was "a great deal to be said for" life in California.

Understanding the Essay "Paradise"

Paradise is considered a very important essay. It gives a clear picture of California in the 1930s. Some people, like Roy Hoopes, believe it is one of the best descriptions of California from that time. James M. Cain himself thought it was the best article he ever wrote.

What People Thought About "Paradise"

H. L. Mencken was a journalist and writer. Cain sent his essay to Mencken in January 1933. Mencken called it "the first really good article" about California during the Great Depression. The magazine cover for the March 1933 issue of American Mercury told readers that Paradise would show them "What Southern California Is Really Like."

At first, people did not fully appreciate Cain's essay. But in 1937, Richard Thomson from The New York Times called it a "masterpiece."

Cain's View of California's Future

Biographer Roy Hoopes explained Cain's honest thoughts about California. Cain believed California had a bright future. He thought this was because of the people who moved there. People were drawn to California's climate and land after they had found some success in their home states.

Cain was impressed that almost everyone in California felt "some sort of destiny awaits this place." He found it exciting to imagine what would happen there in the future.