What Happens to Lennie’s Mouse?
In John Steinbeck’s classic novel, Of Mice and Men, Lennie, a gentle giant with a childlike mind, has a peculiar fascination with soft things. One such soft thing is a mouse, which he keeps in his pocket. But, what happens to this mouse? In this article, we’ll delve into the story behind Lennie’s mouse and explore its significance in the novel.
The Death of the Mouse
According to the novel, Lennie accidentally kills the mouse by petting it too hard. This event serves as a foreshadowing of the tragic consequences that will unfold later in the story. Lennie’s inability to understand his own strength and his innocence in the face of harm are highlighted through this event.
Why Does Lennie Keep the Mouse?
Lennie keeps the mouse because it is soft and he likes to pet it. This fascination with soft things is a recurring theme throughout the novel and is a reflection of Lennie’s childlike mind. The mouse represents Lennie’s desire for something gentle and comforting, a desire that is often cruelly crushed by his lack of understanding and control over his own strength.
The Significance of the Mouse
The mouse may seem like a trivial aspect of the novel, but it holds significant symbolic importance. The mouse represents the fragility of life and the devastating consequences of accidental harm. It also symbolizes Lennie’s deep-seated desire for human connection and understanding, as he tries to communicate with the mouse and understand its behavior.
What’s Next for Lennie?
After the death of the mouse, Lennie’s Aunt Clara stops giving him mice to pet. This event marks a turning point in Lennie’s life, as he becomes increasingly isolated and lonely. The loss of the mouse serves as a metaphor for the loss of innocence and the cruel fate that awaits Lennie and George.
The Mouse’s Aftermath
The death of the mouse has a lasting impact on Lennie, as he becomes increasingly restless and anxious. This unease is a precursor to the tragic events that unfold later in the novel, as Lennie’s mistakes and misjudgments ultimately lead to devastating consequences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the mouse in Lennie’s pocket serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the devastating consequences of accidental harm. Its death has significant symbolic importance, representing the loss of innocence and the cruel fate that awaits Lennie and George.