In John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men a clear need for friendship is recognized through several different characters and their relationships. The alliance that George and Lennie possess is a clear example of how two opposite people can stick together and help each other out. Candy and his dog are excellent illustrations for the effects of a strong relationship coming to a `dead' end. The affects of loneliness are seen through Crooks, the discriminated stable buck, whom has been denied a friend for too long. And Curley's wife is seen to be the result of a person dreaming for a better life.

George and Lennie couldn't be anymore the opposite, yet this is why they can help each other out so much. George, the "small and quick [man], dark of face...