In an attempt to read more classic novels (following my
regression back to GCSE's through William Golding's Lord of the Flies), I
thought I'd have a go with John Steinbeck's novel Of Mice and Men. I hadn't read
this before, but remember reading another John Steinbeck novel back at
school.
The story follows two men who labour on farms, drifting
from job to job; striving for their American dream - to own a farm of their own.
Lennie is a gentle giant, who is a little slow, and his friend George guides and
protects him, relying on him for friendship.
The title of the book is taken from the poem 'To a
Mouse' by Robert Burns, part of which reads:
"The best laid schemes of mice and men, go often awry, and leave us nothing but grief and pain, for promised joy!"
A very apt title for this story of the plans and dreams
of our two main character that seem not meant to be.
Steinbeck strikes a real chord with the reader, you
really want Lennie and George to achieve their dreams. The bond of friendship
between these two is strong, and the innocence and naive purity of Lennie's
character is greatly portrayed.
Arriving at a new farm for work they meet new people
who will play a large part in their lives. Candy becomes a partner in their
dream; Curley, the bosses son, is a hot headed character, ever suspicious, and
rightfully so, of his wife. She's regarded as a tart and a floozy, but seems to
be seeking whatever attention she can get, for any attention is better than
none.
Incase you arent aware of the horrific ending of this
book, I will say little more. But this powerfully sad novel offers little hope
for these two men striving to achieve their American dream, but it seems out of
their control.
This novel has a great balance of a complex plot with
simple writing, and being a short book, this is a super quick read. If, like me,
you were looking to start on a journey of reading Classic novels, this is a
great start.
