It feels like only a few years ago that I was sitting in this very same room. I remember those days because I had come across some of the most interesting novels in English literature. One of the books I enjoyed was entitled Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck. .
Lennie and George are two good friends who have come to a rural ranch in search of a job. During their stay, they befriend several people. One of the characters they confront is the boss's son Curley and his flirtatious wife. One day, Curley's wife visits Lennie and they share some thoughts together. She lets Lennie touch her hair, however, Lennie results in hurting her and breaks her neck. Lennie rushes to George for help, but helplessly, George shoots his best friend.
The two protagonists are differently character wise. Lennie is portrayed as a strong, innocent, mentally challenged worker who has an unusual tendency of hurting different objects while trying to pet them. George, on the other hand, is an idealist with his own dreams, and burdened with the responsibility of taking care of Lennie. What was interesting about their friendship that they were dependent of each other.
Nearly all characters in this story express having an intense sense of loneliness and isolation. Each of them desires the comfort of a friend, but finds that comfort in a stranger. For example, Curley's wife admits to Lennie and Crooks, another worker in the ranch that she is unhappily married and likes spending time with them. Crooks also shares his feeling to Lennie that "life is no good without a companion to turn to in times of confusion and need". Another idea that is evident in the plot at one time or another is the impossibility of living up owns dreams. Before her death, Curley's wife confesses her desire to be a movie star. George and Lennie dreamed to live together in their own farm one day. .
An interesting well-told plot and appealing characters made this book memorable and fun to read.
