Final answer:
In Steinbeck's writing, a gloomy setting is often used in the first chapter to build the mood, which supports the plot development by foreshadowing conflict and mirroring characters' internal struggles.
Step-by-step explanation:
In John Steinbeck's works, the mood is intricately tied to the setting to reinforce the plot's development. In Chapter 1 of his novels, Steinbeck frequently uses the mood to build the plot by establishing a gloomy setting, which becomes a backdrop against which the characters and their actions are highlighted. For example, the threatening weather in a setting can personify conflict, making the reader feel the tension and anticipate upcoming events. The gloomy atmosphere helps to foreshadow the difficulties the characters may encounter and sets the stage for the plot to unfold, with the setting often mirroring the internal conflicts of the characters.
This approach is evident in works like "The Grapes of Wrath" where the desolate and challenging environment reflects the struggles of the migrants. Steinbeck masterfully uses this setting to create a mood that supports the narrative's progression, from the exposure of tragedy to the ongoing hardships the characters endure.
Therefore, Steinbeck typically opts for establishing a gloomy setting (D) in the first chapter of his novels, which serves as a foundation for building the complexity of the plot as it progresses.