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Pursuing Dreams In John Steinbeck's Of Mice And Men

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Ryder Bonios English 1 Period 1 The harsh reality of pursuing your dreams in Of Mice and Men In John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men, we delve into the quest for the American dream during the challenging times of the Great Depression. The story unfolds in 1930’s California, showcasing both the immense hardships of reaching one’s dreams and the flickering hope of their fulfillment. Through characters like George, Lennie, and others, Steinbeck looks into the ups and downs of dreams and the push to make life better. Steinbeck reveals the significant obstacles that stand in the way of fulfilling dreams. The characters endure social isolation, economic instability, and personal struggles that obstruct their chances. George and Lennie, the two protagonists, …show more content…

Steinbeck intricately captures this sense of struggle through George’s words, “Guys like us, that work on ranches, are the loneliest guys in the world., we have a future though, unlike those others.”(13) This quote reflects the harsh reality faced by traveling workers, highlighting their isolation and the difficulty of holding onto dreams in such harsh circumstances. The story paints a picture of pervasive loneliness and isolation experienced by the characters. Despite their dreams, they often feel lonely and disconnected. George and Lennie, despite their strong friendship, are ultimately isolated due to Lennie’s mental challenge and their nomadic lifestyle. This isolation magnifies the difficulties they face, highlighting the mental toll of their pursuit. Steinbeck captures this feeling through Crooks, who reflects on his own solitude, “A guy needs somebody to be near him. A guy goes nuts if he ain’t got nobody.”(72) Crooks' observation underscores the universal need for companionship and the detrimental effects of loneliness on a person's mental well-being. His words show how everyone needs someone nearby, emphasizing the toll of loneliness on his character. Steinbeck reminds us how important human connection is in easing the weight of solitude. Steinbeck adeptly portrays the

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