Symbolism - Quotations
English Lit: Edexcel IGCSE Of Mice & Men, topic 6.2.4
Steinbecks Use of Symbolism
Symbolism is when a writer uses characters, objects or, in the case of Of Mice and Men, animals, to represent deeper meanings.
"Tend the rabbits"
- Lennie dreams of being able to one day “tend the rabbits”.
- The rabbits symbolise Lennie’s childlike innocence, because he loves them for their soft, fluffy fur.
"Live off the fatta the lan'"
- George and Lennie dream about an idyllic place where they can “live off the fatta the lan’”.
- This symbol of hope is so powerful that Candy and, for a time, Crooks are also drawn into it.
"Narrow pool"
- The “narrow pool” (Section 1) by the Salinas River is a symbol of sanctuary and security.
Candy's dog
- Companionship:
- Candy has had the dog “since he was a pup” (Candy, Section 2), and therefore keeps him from feeling lonely and isolated.
- Weakness:
- Symbolises what happens to the weak and helpless in society: Carlson decides the dog is of no use anymore, and so decides “to take him out and shoot him right in the back of the head” (Carlson, Section 2).
Wider symbolism
- Lennie - symbolises those who are mistreated because of mental disabilities.
- Crooks - symbolises people who are discriminated against because of their race: “They play cards in there, but I can't play because I'm black.” (Crooks, Section 4).
- Curley’s wife - symbolises women who are oppressed by sexism: “I never get to talk to nobody. I get awful lonely.” (Curley’s wife, Section 5).
Test yourself on Symbolism - Quotations
What do the rabbits symbolise for Lennie?