In John Steinbeck's story, "The Chrysanthemums," we are introduced to a woman by the name of Elisa Allen. The story is told in a third person limited point of view in Elisa's perspective, and is about the daily trials that she faces while living in a man-dominated world. The only place that she feels she has power is outside in her flower garden. As we continue to read the story, the circumstances and conversations that take place make it clear that gender inequality is a big issue. In the beginning of the story, it is important to note the mood that the author creates. He describes the weather as being foggy, and a "time of quiet and waiting...the air was cold and tender...[and] the farmers were mildly hopeful of a good rain before long; but fog and rain do not go together" (165). This gives off an eerie vibe and it actually signifies the relationship between Elisa and her husband, Henry. When the narrator states that the "fog and rain do not go together" (165), we can make a correlation from that to Elisa and Henry; they do not go together. It is also important to note the stereotypes portrayed throughout the story, and the symbolism they poses. We have the typical male portrayed by Henry Allan and the Tinker. Both of them have ownership over certain things, where Elisa does not. For the Tinker, he has the wagon, and Henry has the foothill ranch. Henry is also the one taking care of business when Elisa sees him talking to the "two men in business suits...by the tractor shed  (165). Any information regarding the ranch given to Elisa comes indirectly through Henry, who often speaks in short, snobbish ways towards her. The characters in this story all play a big part in the issue at hand: female oppression. Elisa Allen is the only female character in the story. She is a passionate, interesting, and hardworking woman that has a mediocre life. She has the role of a stereotypical housewife that tends to the house and garden,