Steinbeck presents loneliness as an inescapable part of the characters’ lives in Of Mice and Men. To what extent do you agree with this statement?

The concept of 'loneliness' is manifested in different forms through the characters in Of Mice and Men. It is necessary to consider the historical context in which the book was written in order to understand the societal causes of loneliness that were also intrinsic to the characters' struggles. Published in 1937 in America, the book is set in the midst of the Great Depression, featuring the protagonists George Milton and Lennie Small, displaced migrant ranch workers travelling around California in search of jobs. Steinbeck's own teenage years were spent working alongside migrant farm workers, perhaps echoing his own sense of loneliness and alienation. This piece will explore the different representations of loneliness that are represented through each character, using various criticisms to substantiate these arguments. It will advocate the view that loneliness is presented as an inescapable part of the characters' lives for the temporal duration of the book. However, knowledge of the historical context informs the reader that this could have been merely a result of the American struggles felt by citizens at the time. The increase in job opportunities and transgression away from the Great Depression in the 1940's brought a sense of hope and prosperity, which would suggest that the loneliness and powerlessness felt by the characters was temporary and escapable.

George Milton’s character is, on the surface, highly capable and functioning. Described as ‘small and quick’, and ‘defined’ with ‘strong features’, he is quick-witted and, in contrast to his best friend Lennie, resourceful and able to look after himself. This would suggest that he is capable of having a satisfying life and fitting in, given the notion of the ‘American Dream’, representing economic and intellectual success. Of the two men, he is the one who thinks things through and considers how their goals of managing their own ranch can be obtained. However, the difference between him and Lennie, and the nature of their friendship does demonstrate a sense of loneliness. George repeatedly gets angry and frustrated with Lennie, who is intellectually handicapped. At the ranch, he often plays solitaire, a game for one. The reader detects a loneliness felt by George, who does not have the opportunity to connect with someone of his own mental rapidity. On the other hand, his relationship with Lennie does represent the only solid relationship throughout the book. George is the responsible figure and, without Lennie, he would lack this purpose.