What is the point of the book Of Mice and Men?
The book "Of Mice and Men" by John Steinbeck explores themes of dreams, friendship, loneliness, and the harsh realities of life during the Great Depression. The overall point of the book is to shed light on the struggles faced by individuals who are marginalized by society and to examine the human need for companionship and purpose. It delves into the plight of the American working class and portrays the desire for a better life, the challenges they encounter, and the inevitable disappointments that follow. The book also raises important questions about the nature of human existence and the pursuit of the American Dream, questioning whether it is attainable or merely an illusion for the characters. Ultimately, "Of Mice and Men" serves as a social commentary on the human condition, highlighting the universal longing for connection and the difficulty of achieving one's aspirations in a world filled with obstacles.
Quotes of Of Mice And Men book
- "Everybody wants a little piece of lan'. I read plenty of books out here. Nobody never gets to heaven, and nobody never gets no land." - George
- "Just like heaven. Nobody never gets to heaven, and nobody gets no land. It's just in their head. They're all the time talkin' about it, but it's jus' in their head." - Crooks
- "Maybe ever'body in the whole damn world is scared of each other." - Slim
- "Lennie—if you jus' happen to get in trouble like you always done before, I want you to come right here an' hide in the brush." - George
- "A guy needs somebody—to be near him. A guy goes nuts if he ain't got nobody." - Lennie
- "Guys like us, that work on ranches, are the loneliest guys in the world. They got no family. They don't belong no place." - George
- "I can still tend the rabbits, George? I didn't mean no harm, George." - Lennie
- "I seen the guys that go around on the ranches alone. That ain't no good. They don't have no fun. After a long time they get mean… they get wantin' to fight all the time." - Candy
- "I got you to look after me, and you got me to look after you, and that's why." - George
- "Trouble with mice is you always kill 'em." - Candy
What is the significance of the last line in Of Mice and Men?
The last line of John Steinbeck's novel "Of Mice and Men" holds significant thematic and emotional weight in the story. The final line states, "Now what the hell ya suppose is eatin' them two guys?"
This line, spoken by one of the ranch workers, Slim, serves as a poignant reflection on the tragedy that unfolds in the story. It encapsulates the theme of loneliness and the impossibility of companionship and dreams in a harsh and unforgiving world.
Throughout the novel, the characters George and Lennie are shown trying to achieve their dream of owning a piece of land, a place where they can be independent and free. As the story progresses, Lennie's mental limitations and uncontrollable strength lead to a tragic event, forcing George to make a devastating decision to protect his friend from the repercussions of his actions.
The final line emphasizes the impact of this action on George, as he is left alone in a world that is now devoid of the friendship and companionship he had with Lennie. It highlights the isolation and sense of loss that he now confronts, making the reader reflect on the broader themes of the novel - the fragility of dreams, the difficult choices one has to make, and the loneliness that pervades the lives of the characters.
In addition to symbolizing George's personal loss, the line also signifies the futility and transience of human connection in the world of the novel. The ranch workers, who witness the events of the story, are left wondering about what has happened to the two friends, yet their curiosity is fleeting, as they move on with their lives. The line creates a sense of detachment and indifference, mirroring the harsh reality of the world the characters live in.
Ultimately, the significance of the last line lies in its ability to encapsulate the key themes of the novel - loneliness, friendship, dreams, and the harsh realities of life. It leaves the reader with a lingering sense of tragedy, prompting reflection on the emotional impact of the story and the existential questions it raises.