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Companionship In John Steinbeck's Of Mice And Men

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The Power of Companionship as Demonstrated through Of Mice and Men Being burdened by close friends or family can be especially bothersome or problematic, as there is a need to constantly attend to them. The responsibility of satisfying each other’s needs before one’s own or repairing their mistakes is often shared between both parties, as well as the negative consequences that may follow. At times, it may even seem simpler to just abandon hope and desert them; however, the fear of loneliness generally prevents this from occurring. John Steinbeck’s novella Of Mice and Men consists of a diverse group of people living and working on a ranch. Although they come from many walks of life, they all share one similar trait. Many of the characters’ …show more content…

For instance, Lennie frustrates George greatly by attempting to harbor a dead mouse in his pocket. George scolds him when he states, “‘God, you’re a lot of trouble’, said George. ‘I could get along so easy and so nice if I didn’t have you on my tail” (Steinbeck 7). In other words, George has contemplated a life without the burdensome Lennie before. Clearly, he has dismissed these thoughts, as they are still traveling and living together. This validates the fact that even the most disastrous missteps of his are being condoned, as the only alternative is a much-feared life of solitude. Additionally, after George’s harsh words hurt Lennie, he recognizes the need for reconciliation and makes an attempt to apologize by claiming, “No–look! I was jus’ foolin’, Lennie. ‘Cause I want you to stay with me” (Steinbeck 13). Here, George is obviously trying to hastily assuage Lennie’s dissatisfaction in order to prevent him from leaving. Had he not been so afraid of living unaccompanied, George would surely have let him leave to inhabit a cave, as that is what Lennie had previously suggested. Therefore, George’s desire for accompaniment serves as a motivation for taking responsibility for

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