In "Cannery Row," John Steinbeck captures the essence of a group of men, including Mack, who find their joy and self-worth outside material possessions and financial success. Their lives are not dictated by profits or the commercialization of their relationships. Instead, they appreciate the simple pleasures of life and the camaraderie they share with one another. The narrative highlights how, despite the struggles of financial hardship, these men maintain a sense of happiness and fulfillment. Their values center around friendship and experiences, rather than the transactions that typically define societal success. This perspective illustrates a contrasting view on wealth, suggesting that true richness comes from non-material experiences and connections.