John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men is a poignant tale of friendship, dreams, and the harsh realities of the Great Depression. While George and Lennie's story dominates the narrative, Candy, the aging ranch hand, provides a compelling subplot exploring themes of loneliness, belonging, and the fear of obsolescence. Through his words and actions, Candy's search for acceptance resonates deeply with readers. This article will delve into key quotes from the novel that illuminate Candy's plight, examining their significance within the broader context of the story.
What is Candy's role in Of Mice and Men?
Candy's role is multifaceted. He’s not just a supporting character; he's a crucial element in the unfolding drama. He represents the marginalized and overlooked, those struggling to maintain relevance in a world that increasingly devalues them due to age and physical limitations. His old dog, which is eventually put down, symbolizes his own fading vitality and impending obsolescence. This fear of being alone and useless drives his desperate desire for belonging.
Why does Candy want to join George and Lennie's dream?
"I ought to of shot that dog myself, George. I shouldn't ought to of let no stranger do it."
This quote reveals Candy's deep regret at not having the courage to end his dog's suffering himself. It's a foreshadowing of his later willingness to contribute to the dream, even if it means relinquishing his only remaining possession, his life savings. The act of letting someone else kill his dog symbolizes his own feeling of powerlessness and his desperation to avoid a similar fate – being discarded and left alone to suffer. His investment in the dream is, in part, a desperate attempt to avoid this fate.
How does Candy feel about his old age and impending death?
"I ain't got no family. They's just the one. . . . An' he's a good dog."
Candy's solitary existence highlights his profound loneliness. His dog is his sole companion, representing his last connection to a life that's slipping away. The simple statement about having no family underscores the heartbreaking reality of his isolation and the fear of facing death alone. This quote lays bare his vulnerability and his deep need for connection.
What motivates Candy to share his money with George and Lennie?
"I’ll put in too," said Candy. "I got a little money saved. I could put it in."
This is a pivotal moment. Candy's willingness to contribute his life savings to George and Lennie's dream speaks volumes about his desperation for belonging. He’s willing to sacrifice his financial security for the promise of companionship and purpose. It signifies a profound shift in his outlook, demonstrating his willingness to risk everything for a chance at a better future, a future where he's not alone.
What does Candy's presence add to the theme of loneliness in the novel?
Candy's loneliness amplifies the prevailing theme of isolation within the novel. While George and Lennie share a bond, Candy's solitude underscores the universality of this human experience, particularly amongst the vulnerable and marginalized. His plight serves as a stark reminder of the importance of companionship and the devastating impact of loneliness.
How does Candy's character contribute to the overall message of the novel?
Candy's character serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of human connection. His struggle for belonging resonates with readers, highlighting the enduring power of hope and the devastating consequences of exclusion. His story subtly underscores the novel's central theme – the elusive nature of the American Dream and the harsh realities faced by those on the margins of society. He's a symbol of the forgotten, and his journey to find a place of acceptance resonates long after the book ends.
This exploration of Candy's quotes reveals the depth and complexity of his character. He is more than just an aging ranch hand; he's a symbol of the human need for belonging and the devastating consequences of loneliness. His story within Of Mice and Men adds another layer to the novel's powerful message about friendship, dreams, and the harsh realities of life.
