Of Mice and Men

John Steinbeck uses the first paragraph in his book, Of Mice and Men to set up the whole story. He uses parallels in his first few sentences that gives clues of characters and events that are going to happen. Almost the whole paragraph can be used as parallels to later happenings in the novel.

"the Salinas River drops in close to the hillside bank and runs deep and green." This quote can be taken in many ways. The word green means alive, fresh, natural, and new. Green parallels to Lenny who is more naive. Deep means strong and solid like George.

Another great parallel comes from the quote "slopes curve up to the strong and rocky Gabilan mountains." Rocky is Lenny's equivalent because he is unable to think for himself. Without George helping him, Lenny is rocky when it comes to decisions. Strong describes George's personality. He knows what is best and helps Lenny try to live a normal life.

The quote "the limb is worn smooth by men who have sat on it" describes George taking care of Lenny. The word worn means tired or broken in. George is so used to taking care of Lenny it is natural to care for and protect him.

The tone in Of Mice and Men is of sadness and despair. Lennie and George are constantly reminded of their hard life and problems. Throughout the book, Steinbeck uses tone to help add detail to the story.

Quotes in the book often reinforce both George and Lennie's lack of education or knowledge. "An' I ain't so bright neither, or I wouldn't be buckin' barley for my fifty and found" describes the poor life style of George. He can't get a better job, so he has to settle for bucking barley earning little pay. This quote has a depressed tone because it shows George's lack of a better life.

George tells Slim about Lennie's tendency to get in trouble by saying, "But he gets in trouble alla time because he's so dumb." This quote shows that Lennie doesn't understand many things and is continuously getting into trouble because of his lack of knowledge. This trouble causes many hardships on George. They have to move from place to place to avoid people who are after Lennie for what he has done.

The theme for Of Mice and Men is to care for one another. It is so important to look out for those who are around you. Family is the number one thing you should care about. It is also crucial to do the same for friends and even mere acquaintances.

With everyone taking on the same attitude George had towards Lennie, the world could be a much better place. People would be more willing to help and more understanding to those in need.

George gave up so much to take care of Lennie. He had to move around the country, not have a wife, and keep a low paying, unsatisfying job. George really cared about Lennie and that is why he was willing to give up these things for the well being and happiness of another person. It is a very admirable thing to do and others should take note of his courage.