I really like Steinbeck's writing style. He's very well rounded; descriptive, but not wordy. Philosophical, but not bombastic. Really, I'm enjoying his cadence a lot.
Also: mistakes happen, and you should give yourself as much grace as you give others. People, if you make a mistake or, at least, are suspect to being mistaken, take an opportunity to assess, to trace your steps. Be open minded in this arena. It's a terrible misstep to make your fault out as synergistic when you're the sole proprietor of the offense.