Of Mice And Men Rhetorical Analysis

1038 Words5 Pages

In society, emotional connection with others is considered fundamental and beneficial, but living without social support can result in persistent stress and pessimism. The novella "Of Mice and Men" emphasises the significance of companionship in life and how it can make life feel meaningless without it. John Steinbeck stresses that having a strong bond with someone is essential for a fulfilling life and mental well-being. He discusses how without maintaining a close and meaningful connection with an individual can guide one to self-isolation and create social anxiety. In addition, the author illustrates the adverse effects of loneliness and isolation on a person's psyche and overall demeanour. Steinbeck aims to demonstrate the advantages of …show more content…

After George and Lennie arrive at the ranch, the two immediately connect with Slim. Slim and George discuss about Lennie and society over a solitaire game, in which George discloses his true feelings about being a ranch worker to Slim. He describes how he has observed the abandoning situation of the lonely ranch workers and how "after a long time, they get mean. They wantin' to fight all the time". According to this quote, prolonged loneliness can make people more prone to aggression and rebellion. This can lead them to pick fights with others as a means of connecting, even if it's violent. Such individuals may harbour the belief that exhibiting dominance over others can help alleviate their loneliness and facilitate the formation of friendships. This depicts how self-isolation alters beliefs and characteristics to be more antagonistic. As newcomers on the ranch, it was crucial for George and Lennie to know about each ranch worker, including Crooks. When explaining the behaviour of each rancher, Crooks is considered a "proud and aloof man" but is then portrayed with "no personality, no ego". The quotes unequivocally reveal that Crooks was once a self-assured individual, yet his absence of companionship precipitated a decline in his confidence levels, transforming him into a more passive individual. Crooks' transformation is a reminder that …show more content…

When George and Lennie are together, they enjoy discussing their ideas for achieving the American Dream. They believe they will "have a little house and a couple acres" and "a rabbit hutch and chickens" in the future. The quote showcases George and Lennie's profound devotion and dedication to their friendship. Their mutual aspiration to reside together in the future and assist each other in all circumstances reinforces their connection. It enables them to overcome challenging situations by providing a collective goal to look forward to; they serve a purpose in each other's lives. This dream is the ultimate form of hope for them. Even amidst the seemingly insurmountable problems of the Great Depression, their dream serves as a beacon of hope for a better future. The dream is a source of strength for them, as it gives them the courage to keep going and strive for a better life. It showcases how having a close friend by your side makes life more exciting and hopeful. In contrast, when Candy's dog, his only friend, is shot, Candy does nothing and lays in the "hay and [covers] his eyes with his arm". The quote reveals Candy's sombre outlook on life and his sense of hopelessness. He lacks a support system of family or friends, leaving him feeling purposeless and exposed. Despite his past struggles, he now feels life is not worth living. The death