Friendship In John Steinbeck's 'Of Mice And Men'

Anonymous (L.S.) The Complications that Arise from Friendships of Utility Of Mice and Men, written by John Steinbeck, conveys the tale of an unlikely friendship between two very different individuals in a time where companionship is scarce and times are difficult for everyone. George, an intelligent and quick witted fellow, finds himself in more trouble than he’s bargained for when Lennie, a strong but rather incompetent man, makes a transgression ultimately causing them to become fugitives of the law. In an effort to sustain themselves and remain undercover Lennie and George find work at a ranch near Soledad, California where they are employed to buck barley. At the ranch, one is able to encounter many different kinds of friendships
This complication can be seen in the friendship formed between Curley and his wife. When Lennie and George first arrive at the ranch Candy comments that it, “Seems like Curley is cockier ‘n ever since he got married” (Steinbeck 27). This quote provides validation as to why Curley got married; he was in need of “bragging rights” that is to say that he entered the friendship for personal gain therefore this can be considered a friendship of utility. Their friendship, however, was short lived. Curley, while looking for his wife encounters George and asks him, “You seen a girl around here?’…George said coldly, ‘’Bout half an hour ago maybe.’‘Well what the hell was she doin?” (Steinbeck 37). Curley exhibits a lack of trust towards his wife by always wanting to know her whereabouts, this lack of trust marks the end of their friendship; therefore supporting Steinbeck’s suggestion that friendships are short-lived due to a lack of trust. An example of this complication is also seen in the friendship between Candy and George. Candy, overhearing George and Lennie’s plan to own a ranch says, “S’pose I went in with you guys. That’s three hundred and fifty bucks I’d put in” (Steinbeck 59). Candy’s willingness to contribute money to George’s dream is a benefit for George; therefore, it can be considered a friendship of utility, for George commences the friendship out of personal gain. However, before Candy offered any contribution towards the ranch George snapped, “S’pose I do…What’s it to you?” (Steinbeck 59). From the start George was suspicious and did not entirely trust Candy which led to the end of their friendship for those who enter friendships of utility without trust have short-lived