Of Mice and Men

I re-read this classic to be reminded just how much of a master Steinbeck was. He does so much with so little. Written to be interpreted as a play, or vice versa as a novella, the scene setting and dialogue work perfectly for this reason. Characterization is strong and the interaction between the characters rings true.

The book has been banned from school curriculums over the years for racial slurs, sexism, promoting euthanasian, and more, but the story and characters are a product of their time (1930s Depression-era America), and the interaction between the working men as well as the portrayal of Curley's wife in their eyes is believable in this context and setting.

The ending is notable for its multiple layers. Although cruel on the surface, there is a tenderness to George's rationale, as the story George tells Lennie about their dream of owning land and tending rabbits–and the deliberate way he tells it–brings some comfort to Lennie, in contrast to what the impending mob would bring.

Finally, the way Steinbeck sets a scene is poetic and breathtaking in its efficiency.