In this chapter, we are introduced to Tom Joad, who encounters Jim Casy, a former preacher who has abandoned his faith. The setting is indicative of the desolation that has gripped Oklahoma due to the Dust Bowl, which has left many farmers in despair. Casy's character serves as a reflection of the broader disillusionment felt by many during this time.

Tom and Casy engage in a profound conversation that reveals their inner struggles. Casy, who was once a spiritual leader, now grapples with the purpose of life and the nature of existence. He articulates a loss of faith, stating that he no longer believes in the doctrines he once preached. Instead, he argues that people are just part of a larger collective, and their individual struggles are interconnected. This idea of collective identity becomes a central theme in the novel, as it foreshadows the solidarity that the Joad family and other migrant workers will need to forge in order to survive.

Casy expresses his belief that humans are not inherently sinful but are rather shaped by their environments and circumstances. He reflects on the struggle of the working class and how the system has oppressed them. This realization is a turning point for both men, as it leads them to consider the potential for collective action against the injustices they face.

Tom, fresh from a stint in prison for homicide, is intrigued by Casy’s thoughts. He feels a sense of camaraderie with the former preacher, and their dialogue helps illuminate the broader societal issues at play. Tom recognizes the importance of community and begins to see the potential for solidarity among those who are suffering.

Casy’s character serves as a bridge between faith and activism. He invites Tom to think beyond the individual struggles and consider a more profound connection with others who are suffering. This chapter sets the stage for the Joad family’s journey, emphasizing that their plight is not just a personal battle, but part of a larger social struggle.

Overall, Chapter 3 is pivotal in establishing the themes of disillusionment and the quest for meaning in times of hardship. It highlights the importance of community, the questioning of traditional beliefs, and the need for collective action in the face of systemic oppression. Through Tom and Casy's meeting, Steinbeck lays the groundwork for the unfolding narrative of struggle and resilience that defines the Joad family's journey.