"I am impelled, not to squeak like a grateful and apologetic mouse, but to roar like a lion out of pride in my profession"

John Steinbeck's quote speaks to the pride he has in his profession as a writer. He is expressing his determination to not be timid or apologetic about his work, but to be strong and confident in his abilities. He is stating that he will not be silenced or cowed by criticism, but will rather defend himself and his work. He is proud of his profession and will not be ashamed to express it. He is determined to be strong and bold in the face of hardship, and to make his voice heard. He is not scared to be loud and happy with his work, and to stand up for what he thinks in. He is figured out to be a lion, not a mouse, and to roar with pride in his occupation.