Theme: The Fragility of Dreams
Exact words from the text
Quotation 1
Quote: "Guys like us, that work on ranches, are the loneliest guys in the world. They got no family. They don’t belong no place."
Context: This quote reflects George's and Lennie's deep sense of isolation as itinerant workers during the Great Depression.
Analysis: George's words underscore the theme of loneliness that permeates the novel. The longing for companionship and belonging resonates throughout the story, particularly between George and Lennie. This idea of friendship amidst isolation serves to highlight the fragility of their shared dream of owning a piece of land, a aspiration that ultimately remains out of reach.
Quotation 2
Quote: "I seen hunderds of men come by an’ go on the road... They come, an’ they quit, an’ go on; an’ every damn one of ‘em’s got a little piece of land in his head…"
Context: This is Crooks speaking to Lennie and demonstrating his understanding of the transient lives of ranch workers.
Analysis: Crooks' insight hints at the universality of broken dreams among the ranch hands. His perspective illustrates not only their desperate aspirations but also the illusions they hold onto in their bleak existence. The repetition of "come" and "go" emphasizes the cyclical nature of their struggles, reinforcing the futility of their dreams in a world that offers little hope or stability.
Quotation 3
Quote: "Tell me about it, George. Tell me about the rabbits."
Context: Lennie often reminisces about their dream of owning a farm, specifically the rabbits he hopes to tend to.
Analysis: Lennie’s fixation on the rabbits symbolizes the innocence and simplicity of his dreams, contrasting sharply with the harsh realities they face. This persistent longing reflects both his vulnerability and the sheer impossibility of their aspirations. Lennie’s childlike hope serves as a poignant reminder of how dreams can provide solace but remain painfully unattainable.
Quotation 4
Quote: "We got a future. We got somebody to talk to that gives a damn about us. We don’t have to sit in no bar room blowin’ in our last dime."
Context: George asserts their bond as a source of hope during a moment of camaraderie with Lennie.
Analysis: Here, George articulates the core of their dreams, emphasizing the power of friendship as a refuge against desolation. The contrast between their dreams of the future and the grim reality of the barroom life shines a light on their relationship as a rare sanctuary. This highlights the thematic juxtaposition of dreams versus reality, underlining how the companionship they share is both a source of strength and a reminder of their concrete limitations.
Quotation 5
Quote: "I seen what they can do to you... I seen it too many times."
Context: Crooks warns Lennie of the dangers of dreaming and how cruel the world can be to those who hope for better lives.
Analysis: Crooks’ caution emphasizes a sobering reality that often accompanies the pursuit of dreams. His experience serves as a harsh reminder of the societal constructs that crush the aspirations of marginalized individuals. This moment encapsulates the overarching theme of disillusionment, as it suggests that for many, dreams are not just fragile but may lead to profound suffering when unattainable hopes confront the harshness of reality.