What two things does George want Lennie to remember? In John Steinbeck’s classic novel “Of Mice and Men,” this question delves into the heart of the complex relationship between the two main characters, George and Lennie. Throughout the story, George constantly reminds Lennie of these two crucial things, each serving as a lifeline for the dream they share of owning their own farm. This article will explore the significance of these two things and their impact on the lives of George and Lennie.
The first thing George wants Lennie to remember is the dream of owning a farm. This dream acts as a beacon for both characters, providing them with a sense of purpose and hope amidst the harsh realities of their lives. The farm represents a place where they can escape the constant struggle for survival and live a peaceful life. George frequently reminds Lennie of this dream, emphasizing the importance of working hard to achieve it. By doing so, George reinforces the bond between them and ensures that Lennie remains focused on their shared goal.
The second thing George wants Lennie to remember is the danger that Lennie’s mental disability poses to their dream. Lennie’s immense strength often leads him to unintentionally harm others, which has caused them both numerous problems in the past. George understands that if Lennie were to get into trouble, their dream would be shattered. Therefore, he constantly reminds Lennie to be cautious and to avoid situations that could lead to trouble. This serves as a crucial reminder for Lennie, who often struggles with understanding the consequences of his actions.
The significance of these two things lies in the fact that they represent the core of George and Lennie’s relationship. The farm symbolizes their shared aspirations and the hope for a better life, while the reminders about Lennie’s disability serve as a constant reminder of the challenges they face. By emphasizing these two aspects, George ensures that Lennie stays on track and that their dream remains intact.
Unfortunately, the weight of their shared past and the relentless pursuit of their dream prove to be too much for Lennie. His actions lead to tragedy, and George is forced to make a difficult decision that ultimately shatters their dream. However, the fact that George wanted Lennie to remember these two things demonstrates the depth of their bond and the lengths to which George was willing to go to protect their dream.
In conclusion, the two things that George wants Lennie to remember in “Of Mice and Men” are the dream of owning a farm and the dangers associated with Lennie’s disability. These two elements are central to the story and highlight the complexities of their relationship. Although their dream ultimately comes to an end, the impact of these two things on George and Lennie’s lives remains a poignant reminder of the power of hope, love, and sacrifice.
