The Struggles of the American Dream (John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men Essay Example)

A peaceful sanctuary full of the wonders and wants the heart desires is what many refer to as a “dream” or a wish. Much like the American Dream, hope for freedom and equality is a thought that revolves around positive expectations. However, can it ever come true? Maybe a dream exists only for the idea and hope of a brighter future. In John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men, the characters are influenced by the hope of future fulfillment. The two main characters, George and Lennie, are poor migrant workers striving to achieve the dream they have longed for.  Due to the fact that George and Lennie are in the bottom class of society, the dream was never taken too seriously by George as it was unlikely to take place. However, by existing in their minds, the two characters gain an aspiration for self-sufficiency and individuality. Steinbeck conveys the message that the American Dream is impossible and unlikely to succeed for those who do not begin with power. Similarly, by further using the characters in the story, the author expresses the influence a dream can hold; even if it seems futile. 

As mere workers, George realized that owning land was not for their class, as they traveled to work and were paid very little. Throughout the story, he even states that the only reason he mentions their dream is for Lennie’s sake. Due to unstable job opportunities, migrant workers struggle with achieving profitable work let alone have the ability to acquire their own land.  The American Dream is not attainable for those who do not start out with authority and leadership, which is a point Steinbeck brings to light throughout the novella. For example, the text states, “Guys like us…They ain’t got nothing to look ahead to” (Steinbeck 13). This allows the reader to connect with Steinbeck’s idea that the American Dream is not accessible to everyone. It is near impossible to achieve for lower-class citizens as they are stuck in an endless cycle of labor with little reward. 

To further elaborate on the theme, Steinbeck uses George and Lennie’s lifestyle to further relate the unfair power dynamics that exist in the country to the failure of the American Dream . By utilizing the character Curley, the author provides the reader with a sense of where George and Lennie stand. They are constantly talked down to and verbally abused all because they are viewed as inferior.  Curley has never worked, but since his father owns the land, he automatically gains control over workers. It is expressed through the characters that, “If I was bright, if I was even a little bit smart, I’d have my own little place…” (Steinbeck 38). Therefore, the American Dream puts prospering individuals, such as Curley, into an unfair advantage compared to those who must provide labor to succeed. Sequentially, the inevitable failure of the American Dream is high due to the fact many of the country’s citizens will be unable to achieve their goal.  George and Lennie will find it to be a long and excruciating experience attempting to achieve their dream in a society based on specific authority requirements.   

At the start of the novella, it may seem as though George has no interest in the future they imagine, as he uses it mainly as an option to influence Lennie. In a way, George uses Lennie’s aspirations and desires to manipulate him. Usually when George references the idea, it’s compelling Lennie to commit a certain action. Dreams thrive in the mind and someone’s mentality can be very fragile when tainted.  For instance, “Sometimes he talks and you don't know what the hell he’s  talkin’ about” (Steinbeck 67). In other words, George knows a simple way to control Lennie and uses it to his advantage. A dream can have more dominance and power compared to a physical standpoint for all of Lennie’s decisions rely solely on his dream. Therefore, the dream is the most important factor in the storyline as it controls the thoughts and actions of the characters. 

Although George seems reluctant to the thought of obtaining the dream, it’s likely that he feels comforted with the idea of a brighter ending to their story. He keeps it alive for Lennie, but also his own mentality as it gives him a heart warming goal to strive for. The ideal dream for George and Lennie is stated as, “ You…an’ me. Ever’body gonna be nice to you. Ain’t gonna be no more trouble” ( Steinbeck 102). The peacefulness described provides a sense of serenity to the characters as all they desire is to be free. Even though that outcome is unlikely to occur, their dream can live on solely for the purpose of positivity.

All in all, the dream George and Lennie imagine is prominent and influential throughout the story even though the likelihood of it occurring is slim. The power dynamics and unfair prejudice against poor classes make it so that the American Dream is unsuccessful and unattainable. Steinbeck uses several characters to reference the idea that influence is the key to a smooth success. Even if it is just a figment of our imaginations, a dream can exist to provide hope and enrichment for the mind.