John Steinbeck’s novella "Of Mice and Men" poignantly explores the complexities of human loneliness through its portrayal of characters living on the margins of society. Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression, the story follows George and Lennie, two migrant workers with a dream of owning their own piece of land. Through their journey, Steinbeck illuminates the profound isolation experienced by individuals such as Crooks, Curley’s Wife, and Candy, each grappling with their own unique form of loneliness. One of the most striking portrayals of loneliness in the novella is embodied by Crooks, the solitary African American stable-hand. Isolated from the other ranch workers due to racial segregation, Crooks finds himself yearning for companionship and human connection. When Lennie enters his segregated quarters seeking solace, Crooks reveals his innermost feelings: “A guy needs somebody—to be near him.” His poignant words reflect the deep-seated loneliness exacerbated by societal discrimination. Crooks’ reminiscences about his past and his vulnerability in admitting his need for companionship highlight the devastating impact of racial prejudice on one’s sense of belonging. …show more content…
Denied a name of her own and relegated to the role of Curley’s possession, she expresses her profound loneliness to Lennie, lamenting, “I get lonely... You can talk to people, but I can’t talk to nobody but Curley.” Her desperate plea for genuine human connection underscores her longing for meaningful interaction beyond the superficial façade imposed by her marriage. Steinbeck portrays Curley’s wife not as a mere object of desire, but as a woman whose aspirations and dreams have been stifled, leaving her isolated and yearning for emotional