"An' we could have a few pigs. I could build a smoke house like the one gran'pa had, an' when we kill a pig we can smoke the bacon and the hams, and make sausage an' all like that. An' when the salmon run up river we could catch hundred of 'em an' salt 'em down or smoke 'em." (pg.57)

Analysis:

George and Lennie's farm dream symbolizes an idealized version of American life for the time period. In other words, how the American dream was typically perceived during the 1930s. This illustrates Steinbeck's use of realism, as dreams are universally present within all people, and our dreams typically depict circumstances unlikely to occur. Because dreams are inherently personal, it's relevation increases the connection between the characters (specifically Lennie and George) and the audience.

"Lennie’s closed hand slowly obeyed. George took the mouse and threw it across the pool to the other side, among the brush. "What you want of a dead mouse, anyways?" "I could pet it with my thumb while we walked along," said Lennie. "Well, you ain’t petting no mice while you walk with me. You remember where we’re goin’ now?" Lennie looked startled and then in embarrassment hid his face against his knees. "I forgot again." (Pg 5-6)

Analysis:

One of Lennie's fixations is soft things, so keeping the mouse in his pocket means he always has something soft to touch. The dead mouse symbolizes Lennie's lack of understanding of basic societal rules and acceptable behaviors. It also symbolizes Lennie's lack of understanding of death. As he is very naive towards the dangers of the world, and can't comprehend the feeling of death and loneliness.

Analysis

The quote above demonstrates Lennie’s inability to care for smaller/weaker creatures. This is exemplified through him accidentally killing his puppy. Lennie loved this puppy very dearly, but failed to protect it. This may cause some problems to arise in the future, as Lennie’s dream of tending the rabbits may result in him harming or potentially killing the rabbits. The death of the puppy symbolizes the futility of the strong trying to help the weak. They often don’t work together, as the weak fail to keep up with the strong.

"If you want me to, I'll put the old devil out of his misery right now and get over with. Ain't nothing left for him. Can't eat, can't see, can't even walk without hurtin' "

pg 47

Analysis

The death of Candy's dog is foreshadowing as well as symbolism for the eventual death of Lennie. In both ways, both lives were taken with a pistol to the back of the head, as well as the regret behind the decision. In each case, the person most responsible yet most dear was the one who pulled the trigger. Candy's guilt symbolizes George's guilt. Although Lennie and the dog did nothing wrong, they're both seen as powerless, especially in a society that is ruled by survival.