Explore the theme of dreams in 'Of Mice and Men'

(P - point) Dreams play a central role in 'Of Mice and Men' by introducing the idea of the American Dream and its reality in the time of the Great Depression. (E - example)Before even reaching the ranch Lennie and George talk about their own dream, "We're gonna have a little house and a couple of acres an' a cow an' some pigs..." Despite being typical poor ranchers, eating just beans and sleeping rough, George repeats to Lennie why they are different to other ranchers because "we gotta future". (E - explanation/exploration) This dream is linked to the 'American Dream' which is the idea that all men are equal so with hard work and dedication, everyone has the possibility for success and a better life. It is a source of hope for Lennie and George, which motivates them to get a job on the ranch and work towards their goal of independence owning their own farm. The biggest attraction for Lennie is rabbits for him to pet, but for George it is freedom, which is particularly symbolic of the American ideal. However, written in a reflection of the Great Depression in 1930s America, it was a time when the American Dream was no longer possible, as the reality for the country was widespread poverty, deprivation and loss. The way George recites their dream like a bedtime story to Lennie suggests that their future is more aligned with fairytales than reality, so from the beginning the reader knows it will never come true. (L - link) Therefore, Steinbeck uses George and Lennie's dream to highlight the harsh reality of America and the futility of the once powerful American Dream. He seems to suggest that there is in fact no hope for the common man, who's struggle to survive dreaming about the future will never come to pass.