"Of Mice and Men" is a novella by John Steinbeck that follows the journey of two displaced ranch workers, George and Lennie, during the Great Depression. The story explores their friendship and dreams, particularly their aspiration to own a piece of land. George, who is intelligent and pragmatic, looks after Lennie, who has a mental disability but possesses great physical strength. Their bond represents the human desire for connection and hope amid hardship.
The narrative unfolds in a California setting, where George and Lennie face the challenges of itinerant life. They seek work on a ranch, encountering various characters who add complexity to their dream. The novella highlights themes of loneliness, the fragility of dreams, and the harsh realities of life for marginalized individuals during this era.