Theme Of Companionship In Of Mice And Men

Companionship is a commonly addressed theme in Of Mice and Men. In the first few chapters, those who met travellers Lennie and George would address their relationship, as it is made clear that most ranch workers would not travel together. In Chapter 4, the concept of other characters needing companionship is explored. Crooks, the only black man living on the ranch, lives alone. When Lennie decides to enter his room, Crooks is wary; he is suspicious of Lennie, as nobody usually visits him. When Lennie persists on entering he is allowed in by Crooks, who softens up. Immediately, he decides to converse with Lennie, seemingly forgetting that he initially didn’t want to invite him in. Realizing Lennie’s forgetful personality, Crooks starts to talk
to Lennie about his childhood. When Crooks’ initial interactions with Lennie changes to a more open and trusting conversation, it is evident that the importance of companionship to Crooks is having someone to trust and talk to. His softened reaction to getting more visitors shows how Crooks enjoys having normal conversation with people, especially because of the usual discrimination against his race. Companionship to Crooks is being treated equally and feeling understood.
For Lennie, companionship means feeling wanted. As well as his previous interactions with George involving a need for validation, his response to Crooks’ teasing makes it seem like he fears being unwanted or feeling useless. When Crooks brings up the idea of George abandoning Lennie, and Lennie becomes angry at Crooks for doing so. Lennie depends on George for validation, and Crooks’ teasing hurts Lennie’s self confidence in feeling useful. Lennie seeks companionship to find purpose. For me, the importance of companionship is having somebody to talk to and reassure me. I am often unsure about my decisions, and discussing things with people I am friends with helps me be sure of my decisions. Usually, talking to others helps me understand myself and other people. My friends support me through hard times and lead me on the right paths.