An unruly world and its harsh conditions inevitably and ambiguously teach their lessons by extending their wrath upon the unfortunate. Such is the case repeatedly in Of Mice and Men, John Steinbeck's short novel in which he also teaches lessons by focusing on the symbiotic relationship of two migrant workers, the individuals they encounter, and the tragic downfall of their union. Of Mice and Men is an allegory, in which John Steinbeck attempts to demonstrate the hopelessness of the world through fruitless labors, failing dreams, and dying friendship.

Lennie and George are representative of the individual concepts of friendship and weakness, linked by a story to impart John Steinbeck's ultimate message. George represents the rarity and loyalty of friendship in the merciless times in which he and Lennie live. Lennie tells him that "I got you to look after me, and you got me to look after you...