Slim was considered powerful in the way he spoke. Anytime Slim spoke, “There was a gravity in his manner and a quiet so profound that all talk stopped when he spoke. His authority was so great that his word was taken on any subject, be it politics or love.” (Pg. 33). This quote represents Slim’s power by explaining that ranchers would be silent and contemplating at whatever he stated something. His way with words could influence any ranchers to concur with his morals; and in some cases, his opinions were thought of as the truth. However, Slim’s influence means he can decide if someone earns justice or a punishment; regardless of whether it is honest or a lie. “‘Well, then listen... I think you got your han’ caught in a machine. If you don’t …show more content…
Slim had exploited community. In the scene above where Slim lied to Curley, he did so to enforce the idea of Curley as he listened to his words; therefore, he truly understood Curley’s weaknesses like derision and used it against him. Even in the most stressful and appalling scenes, Slim was there to give an explanation. After the murder of Curley’s wife, Slim autopsied her as “he felt her wrist. One lean finger touched her cheek, and then his hand went under her slightly twisted neck and his finger explored her neck. When he stood up the men crowded near and the spell was broken.” (pg. 96). Despite lacking any proper medical training, the ranch workers were convinced that the cause of death portrayed by Slim was true. Slim’s voice essentially granted him trustworthiness, if Slim wasn’t doing the autopsy, no one would be convinced by the result. With time, Slim’s words were basically seen as the objective truth. Based on Slim’s actions, he can be regarded as a generous human being who supports the people around him. Slim had made it pronoun that he was a well-respected role model for his community; with all this authority, he could persuade these men to benefit himself. However, he goes against this ideology and instead sustains the ranch together as a whole.
Curley acquired slight power as a result of being the son of the ranch foreman; however, his power came from presenting his abilities to gain natural authority. Basically, Curley obtained influence by using his strengths to his advantage. He had an evident reputation of trying to show his fighting skills among the ranchers; it reached the point where other ranchers knew Curley’s tactic. Candy