close
test_template

Lennie Unintelligent Quotes

download print

About this sample

About this sample

close

Words: 621 |

Page: 1|

4 min read

Published: Jun 13, 2024

Words: 621|Page: 1|4 min read

Published: Jun 13, 2024

Table of contents

  1. Introduction
  2. 'Lennie Unintelligent Quotes'
  3. Childlike Speech
  4. Misunderstandings
  5. Repetitive Phrases
  6. Actions Speak Louder
  7. Conclusion
  8. Bibliography

Introduction

From the first pages of John Steinbeck's classic book, "Of Mice and Men," it's pretty clear that Lennie Small, one of the main characters, isn't the sharpest tool in the shed. His limited smarts show up in how he talks and what he does, often leading to big problems. In this essay, I'll look at some of Lennie's not-so-smart quotes and what they mean, shedding light on his mental limitations. By digging into these quotes, I'll argue that Lennie's lack of intelligence sets off a chain of tragic events in the story. It really shows us the tough realities faced by folks with cognitive disabilities.

'Lennie Unintelligent Quotes'

Childlike Speech

One big sign of Lennie's not-so-bright side is how he talks like a kid. All through the novel, he's shown as someone who has trouble making sense when he speaks. For example, when George warns him about drinking water from a pool that might be bad, Lennie says, "I ain't gonna drink no bad water. I'm gonna get a drink" (Steinbeck, 7). Here, Lennie's double negative and messed-up grammar show off his limited language skills. This childlike way of talking not only makes Lennie seem less intelligent but also makes readers feel sorry for him. It highlights how vulnerable people with cognitive disabilities can be.

Misunderstandings

Lennie's lack of smarts becomes even clearer through his many misunderstandings in the story. He just can't wrap his head around complex stuff, which often leads to disasters. For instance, when George talks about their dream of owning land, Lennie says he wants to tend rabbits: "I could pet 'em, and they wouldn't bite me" (Steinbeck, 14). This shows how he doesn't get the harsh realities of life. While his innocent dreams are sweet, they also point out his limited understanding and inability to see the results of what he does.

Repetitive Phrases

Another thing about Lennie's not-so-smart talk is how he repeats himself. He leans on familiar phrases a lot to express himself, showing off his small vocabulary and brainpower. Like when George scolds him for something he did wrong; Lennie always says, "I forgot" (Steinbeck, 9). This constant use of "I forgot" underscores his struggle to remember things and shows how much he depends on George for direction. It's a reminder of the challenges people with cognitive disabilities face every day.

Actions Speak Louder

But it's not just his words—Lennie's actions also scream lack of intelligence. His curious nature and failure to grasp consequences usually end in tragedy. One heartbreaking moment is when Lennie accidentally kills a puppy by petting it too hard. Upset, Lennie says, "Why do you got to get killed? You ain't so little as mice. I didn't bounce you hard" (Steinbeck, 85). This shows Lennie can't understand his own strength or how fragile living things are. His actions—driven by limited thinking—lead to unintended harm and set up the devastating ending.

Get a custom paper now from our expert writers.

Conclusion

To sum up, Lennie's not-so-smart quotes in "Of Mice and Men" shine a light on his mental limits and kick off the tragic events in the book. Through his childlike speech, misunderstandings, repeated phrases, and misguided actions, we clearly see his lack of intelligence. But it's important to view Lennie's character with empathy because it reminds us of the struggles faced by people with cognitive disabilities every day. Steinbeck paints a vivid picture of societal prejudices against those with intellectual limitations through Lennie's story. By exploring these quotes from Lennie, we gain insight into the complexities around cognitive disabilities and why compassion matters for individuals like him.

Bibliography

  • Steinbeck, J., & Shillinglaw S., (1994). Of Mice And Men. Penguin Books.
  • Benson J.J., (1984). The Short Novels Of John Steinbeck: Critical Essays With A Checklist To Steinbeck Criticism.
    University Of North Carolina Press.
  • Meyer M., (2009). The Grapes Of Wrath And Other Writings 1936–1941: The Long Valley / The Grapes Of Wrath / The Log From The Sea Of Cortez / The Harvest Gypsies.
  • Benson J.J., Loftis Anne., (1990). John Steinbeck And Edward Flanders Ricketts: The Shaping Of A Novelist.
Image of Dr. Charlotte Jacobson
This essay was reviewed by
Dr. Charlotte Jacobson

Cite this Essay

Lennie Unintelligent Quotes. (2024, Jun 13). GradesFixer. Retrieved January 21, 2025, from https://gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/lennie-unintelligent-quotes/
“Lennie Unintelligent Quotes.” GradesFixer, 13 Jun. 2024, gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/lennie-unintelligent-quotes/
Lennie Unintelligent Quotes. [online]. Available at: <https://gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/lennie-unintelligent-quotes/> [Accessed 21 Jan. 2025].
Lennie Unintelligent Quotes [Internet]. GradesFixer. 2024 Jun 13 [cited 2025 Jan 21]. Available from: https://gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/lennie-unintelligent-quotes/
copy
Keep in mind: This sample was shared by another student.
  • 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
  • Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours
Write my essay

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

close

Where do you want us to send this sample?

    By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

    close

    Be careful. This essay is not unique

    This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

    Download this Sample

    Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

    close

    Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

    close

    Thanks!

    Please check your inbox.

    We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

    clock-banner-side

    Get Your
    Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

    exit-popup-close
    We can help you get a better grade and deliver your task on time!
    • Instructions Followed To The Letter
    • Deadlines Met At Every Stage
    • Unique And Plagiarism Free
    Order your paper now