Michelle Lau Mrs. Paff English I 10/7/14 Title In the novella Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck, the author utilizes setting and imagery to assist the reader in understanding the transformations the two principle characters, George and Lennie, undergo before and after their stay at the ranch society. The depictions of the brush reflects the change in George and Lennie’s relationship. On the ranch, they come across obstacles such as alienation and injustice that weakens their bond and leaves them powerless. George and Lennie continue to struggle along the way, but alas, the predator, Curley, obtains dominance and defeats the weaklings; just like how the predator in nature defeats their prey. Steinbeck illustrates the setting and imagery of the …show more content…
The setting includes warm “twinkling”(1) water, “sunlight” (1) and “willows fresh and green with every spring”(1) which creates a very harmonious and enjoyable ambience. At this point, there is no acknowledgement of a predator or malice. The brush is an escape from the cruelty of society; it was a place free of malice and judgement. Like the setting of the brush, George and Lennie are free of judgement from the society they are about to enter. The brush is a temporary safe haven for George and Lennie, where they are able to avoid dangers of humanity. The author emphasizes the safety of the brush when he writes “‘Well, look. Lennie--if you jus’; happen to get in trouble like you always done before, I want you to come right here an’ hide in the brush’”(13), which indicates the brush is a shelter of protection for George and Lennie. George and Lennie share a common dream, whic is to own an independent farm together and more specifically, to create a place of acceptance. The farm will be a permanent version of the brush, where they are able to flourish indibidually in an accepting environment. They leave the serenity of the brush determined to attain their goal. Unbeknownst to them, their future is out of their control as soon as they step foot into