John Steinbeck’s classic novella “Of Mice and Men” is a short book with a lot to say.
During the Great Depression, two friends, the simple-minded Lennie and his protector, George, are wandering through California. Seeking employment, they dream to one day purchase their own piece of land. When they find jobs at a ranch and join forces with the other workers, the dream draws tantalizingly close. George, though, is not able to guard Lennie from the harsh reality of working-classAmerica.
Steinbeck thrusts one into the fragile, hopeless world of the Great Depression with his brutally real story. Though short, “Of Mice and Men” is vivid and haunting, and the ending will not leave one for a long time. One of Steinbeck’s greatest strengths is his dialogue. Raw and uncensored, the dialogue is consistently believable. Also, his careful usage of figurative language renders his prose striking while retaining limpid simplicity.
After reading “Of Mice and Men,” one will find it tough to forget its larger-than-life characters. None of the characters are cookie-cutter creations. They often act erratically and irrationally, especially the main character, George. Though he is presented as one of the most moral characters, he also displays another side of himself. His temper often flares up, which makes him impatient and snappy. Lennie, his best friend, is completely different. While George is quick-witted and world-weary, Lennie is open, curious, and childlike. His constant wonder, innocence, and naiveté are refreshing in the jaded world of Depression-eraAmerica. The minor characters, though playing smaller roles, are equally well thought-out. Because of Steinbeck’s effective character development and strong dialogue, every character in Steinbeck’s novel feels real: George, Lennie, their fellow workers, the ranch owner, and even the often cliché femme fatale.
Reading “Of Mice and Men,” one of Steinbeck’s finest novels, is truly a beautiful experience. It is a short read, but one that is difficult to ever forget.
I like how you revealed the plot without giving too much away to new readers! It was such a sad book and you reviewed it accordingly 🙂
Thank you! 🙂