Candy in of Mice and Men: Loneliness and Lost Dreams

John Steinbeck's book Of Mice and Men digs into some heavy themes like the tough times during the Great Depression, the American Dream, and how people on the fringes of society feel really alone. One character who really shows all this is Candy, the old ranch-hand who's missing a hand and has an old dog. Through Candy, we see how loneliness and broken dreams hit hard in a world where hope seems pretty scarce. This essay's gonna look at why Candy's character matters, focusing on his relationships, his need for friends, and what happens when his dreams don't come true.

Candy's Loneliness

Candy's loneliness is a big part of who he is, and it’s made worse by his age and his disability. With just one hand, Candy can't do all the tough work needed on the ranch. Plus, he's older than the other guys, which makes him feel even more left out. His loneliness hits you in the gut when he talks to George and Lennie, saying, "I ain't much good with on'y one hand. I lost my hand right here on this ranch" (Steinbeck 59). This line not only tells us how he got hurt but also shows how he feels emotionally. The ranch should be a place where he belongs, but instead, it just reminds him of what he's lost.

Candy's Need for Companionship

On top of being lonely, Candy really wants some company. When he hears George and Lennie talking about their dream of owning land, he gets super excited. He even offers to pitch in his savings, saying, "I'd make a will an' leave my share to you guys in case I kick off, 'cause I ain't got no relatives nor nothing" (Steinbeck 59). Candy's desperate for connection, hoping this dream will give him the friends and belonging he's missing. But as the story goes on, Candy's dreams get crushed, leaving him even more alone.

The Symbolism of Candy's Dog

The sad part about Candy's broken dreams shows just how hard life was during the Great Depression. Candy's dog, his loyal buddy, becomes a sign of what's gonna happen to him. Carlson, another ranch guy, says the dog is old and useless, suggesting they put it down. Even though Candy doesn't want to, he finally gives in and lets Carlson shoot his dog. This sad moment shows how powerless Candy is and how he loses his only friend. It also hints at Candy's own future, as he realizes he's also becoming less useful on the ranch.

Conclusion

In the end, Candy's story in Of Mice and Men is a sad look at loneliness and lost dreams. Through his relationships, his wish for friends, and the sad results of his broken dreams, Steinbeck shows how lonely life can be when hope is hard to find. Candy's story reminds us of the tough times people on the fringes faced during the Great Depression and how important human connection is when things are rough. As readers, we think about how fragile dreams are and how we all want companionship, no matter the time or place.