In John Steinbeck's "The Grapes of Wrath," the quote highlights a profound truth about human resilience and the nature of action in desperate situations. It suggests that when individuals are left with no alternatives, taking action becomes less about courage and more about survival. This reflects the struggles faced by the characters, who are compelled to act amidst hardship without the luxury of choice.

The essence captured in this quote speaks to the larger themes of the novel, emphasizing how desperation can drive people to take risks they might normally avoid. It underscores the idea that real courage is often found in the face of dire circumstances, where the need to act is a fundamental response to one's environment rather than a conscious display of bravery.