You’re absolutely right. John Steinbeck’s choice of the title “Of Mice and Men” draws from Robert Burns’ poem, “To a Mouse.” In that poem, Burns outlines how even the most meticulous plans of men and mice alike can go awry, often due to unforeseen circumstances. The expression, “The best laid schemes o’ mice an’ men / Gang aft agley,” indeed succinctly captures the core theme of Steinbeck’s novel.
In “Of Mice and Men,” this theme is clearly illustrated through the main characters, George and Lennie, whose dream of owning their own land and living “off the fatta the lan'” never materializes. Despite their best efforts, they are bound by their circumstances in an unpredictable and harsh world.
Steinbeck’s powerful storytelling and his skillful use of symbolism make it clear that, like Burns’ mouse whose nest is destroyed unexpectedly, George and Lennie are victims of circumstances beyond their control. The dreams they hold are crushed by the reality of their situation.
Steinbeck’s novel is indeed a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of life. While we might make detailed plans and build elaborate dreams, forces outside our control can change the course of our paths. However, it also emphasizes the enduring power of friendship and the human spirit in the face of adversity. Even when faced with profound hardship, George and Lennie support one another, demonstrating the potential for human connection to offer solace in even the most difficult of circumstances.
