Mice and Men "having Someone"

"Having Someone"

Humans, by nature seek the company and social connection of those around them. This association allows us to function better in society because we then have someone for us to relate to. For example, the successful works of the Wright brothers display the effects of "having someone". The idea of "having someone" and its effects play a significant role in John Steinbeck's novel, Of Mice and Men. The novel displays the effects of not "having someone" with the theme of loneliness. The character Lennie depicts this entire concept; additionally, the character Crooks portrays this idea. Lastly, Curley's wife is yet another example of how the novel shows the concept of "having someone" within the novel.

First, the novel depicts the idea of "having someone" multiple times through the character Lennie. An example of this would be when George is reciting their dream to Lennie "Lennie broke in. ‘But not us! An' why? Because... because I got you to look after me, and you got me to look after you, and that's why.' He laughed delightedly." (pg. 14) In this quote, Lennie is overcome with joy at the mention of the two looking out for one another. This is an excellent example of how Lennie illustrates the concept of "having someone" because it shows Lennie overcome with joy when the two mention they are looking out for one another. An additional instance where Lennie shows the idea of "having someone", is when Crooks is telling him George may not return from town. "‘George gonna come back,' Lennie reassured himself in a frightened voice." (pg. 73) In this quote, the thought of being alone overwhelms Lennie with fear. This is an outstanding example of how Lennie illustrates the concept of "having someone" because it shows Lennie becoming afraid, when Crooks suggests that George may not return from town and that Lennie will be alone. One last example where Lennie portrays the concept of "having someone", is when the men from the ranch leave for town and leave Lennie behind. "Noiselessly Lennie appeared in the open doorway and stood there looking in, his big shoulders nearly filling the opening ... ‘Just come to look at my puppy. And I seen your light,' he (Lennie) explained." (pg 68) In this quote, Lennie is alone and seeks comfort with soft objects. This is an exceptional example of how Lennie illustrates the concept of "having someone" because the quote shows him attempting to find comfort with soft objects. Additionally, the idea of "having someone is not only shown through Lennie, but other characters as well.

Secondly, the novel the exposes the concept of "having someone" several times through the character Crooks. An example of this would be when Lennie went into the room where Crooks lives. "