Parker Levine Scheidegger Ms. Kelt Honors English 1 16 February 2023 Isolated and Alone Loneliness is the feeling of being alone, regardless of the amount of social interaction. Social isolation is one of the biggest causes of loneliness, while some people can feel lonely without being socially isolated (CDC). Loneliness is a big issue in society today, especially in America. 36% of all Americans, including 61% young adults feel “serious loneliness” (Harvard School of Education). This feeling of being alone is very prevalent in John Steinbeck's 1937 novel, Of Mice and Men. There are several characters in the novel that struggle with a deep nagging feeling of loneliness. This feeling of loneliness in each character is not the same but still …show more content…
He fears he may be let go of his job due to the fact he isn’t as valuable as some of the younger guys. Candy is desperate for companionship, which for a while he would turn to his dog for comfort. However, when Carlson suggests putting down the dog due to the fact he is no longer useful and smells, Candy hesitantly agrees. Carlson takes Candy’s best friend outside to “put him down” this is when Candy loses it. He tells George and Lennie, “I ought to of shoot that dog myself, George . I shouldn’t have ought to let no stranger shoot my dog” (Steinbeck 61). This quote shows how Candy is regretful of his decision and is realizing his need for companionship. He also confides in George and Lennie and tells them, “ I ain’t got no relatives nor nothing” (Steinbeck 59). This quote shows how Candy doesn’t have anyone, and is in an isolated state of …show more content…
Out of all the characters I believe that Crooks is the loneliest character in the novel. With Crooks, he is being isolated for something completely out of his control. He is racially discriminated against and people are supposed to have no interaction with him, and he isn’t allowed to leave the barn. He has resorted to replacing people with books due to how alone he is. While Candy is without a companion, he still has the other ranchmen to interact and live with. Curley’s Wife, although restricted by her imperious demanding husband, she still has power on the ranch and has a say in things due to her marriage. And although he may be a control freak and by no means a good husband, she also has