9 of the Most Memorable Quotes from Of Mice and Men
Introduction
John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men is a classic of modern literature. Published in 1937, it tells the story of two migrant workers, George and Lennie, who are struggling to survive during the Great Depression. The story is often used to explore themes of friendship, loyalty, and the American Dream. It also contains some of the most memorable quotes to be found in any of Steinbeck’s works.
Quote #1: “A guy needs somebody—to be near him.”
This quote is spoken by George, Lennie’s companion and loyal friend. George is explaining to Lennie why they need each other: they are both outcasts in the world, and they each need the other to be complete. The quote is a reminder of the power of friendship, even in the midst of hard times.
Quote #2: “The best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry.”
This quote is a famous line from the poem “To a Mouse” by Robert Burns. It is also a theme that runs throughout the novel. Throughout the novel, George and Lennie’s plans to buy a ranch and live out their dreams are constantly thwarted by the events that befall them. The quote serves as a reminder that life can be unpredictable and that our plans are not always guaranteed to work out.
Quote #3: “I got you to look after me, and you got me to look after you.”
This quote is spoken by Lennie, and it is one of the most memorable lines in the novel. It is a testament to the bond between George and Lennie, and to the power of friendship. It also shows how much George and Lennie rely on each other for support and companionship.
Quote #4: “Maybe ever’body in the whole damn world is scared of each other.”
This is another quote from George, and it serves as a reminder that fear and suspicion are pervasive in the world. Of Mice and Men is set during the Great Depression, when economic uncertainty and mistrust of outsiders was rampant. The quote is a reminder of how even in difficult times, people can come together to help each other.
Quote #5: “Tell about the rabbits, George.”
This is a famous quote from Lennie, and it is one of the most beloved lines in the novel. It shows how much Lennie cares about his relationship with George and how much he enjoys hearing George tell stories. It is also a reminder of the power of friendship and the comfort that we can all take from the stories of our lives.
Quote #6: “The things we want in life, we can never have.”
This quote is spoken by George, and it serves as a reminder of the harsh realities of life. Throughout the novel, George and Lennie’s plans for a better life are constantly thwarted by the obstacles that they face. The quote emphasizes the idea that life does not always turn out the way we want it to.
Quote #7: “I seen hundreds of men come by on the road an’ on the ranches, with their bindles on their back an’ that same damn thing in their heads.”
This quote is spoken by Candy, the elderly ranch hand. It is a reminder of the harsh realities of the American Dream during the Great Depression. Despite the hardships faced by George and Lennie, they still hold on to their dreams of one day owning their own ranch. The quote is a reminder of how longing for something can make it seem more attainable.
Quote #8: “A strong man don’t need no sense.”
This quote is spoken by Curley, the son of the ranch owner. It serves as a reminder of how people can be judged by their physical strength rather than their intelligence. It is a reminder of the power of perception and how it can affect our lives.
Quote #9: “Guys like us, that work on ranches, are the loneliest guys in the world.”
This is a quote from George, and it serves as a reminder of the loneliness of the migrant worker. Despite the friendship between George and Lennie, they are still outcasts in the world. The quote is a reminder of the power of friendship and how it can make a difference in a person’s life.
Conclusion
John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men is a classic of modern literature. It contains some of the most memorable quotes to be found in any of Steinbeck’s works. These quotes are a reminder of the power of friendship, the importance of dreams, and the harsh realities of life. They are a testament to Steinbeck’s genius and a reminder of why his work remains so relevant today.