* "I got you to look after me, and you got me to look after you." (Chapter 1) This line, often seen as a statement of their strong bond, also hints at George's need for someone to rely on and be relied upon. It suggests he doesn't want to be alone in the world.
* "A guy goes nuts if he ain't got nobody. Don't make no difference if he's got a million bucks." (Chapter 1) This quote shows George's awareness of the importance of companionship and his fear of the loneliness that can drive a person to madness. It suggests that he values connection more than material possessions.
* "I seen the guys that work on ranches, an' I seen the guys that work in the towns, an' I tell ya I ain't got no use for either one. They ain't got no sense of the country. They don't know what it's like to sleep out under the stars an' talk to your friend." (Chapter 3) This line expresses George's disillusionment with the loneliness he has experienced in both rural and urban settings. It highlights his yearning for a different kind of connection, a shared experience with a close friend.
* "If you an' me was to get a job, I wouldn't have to worry about nothin', would I? We'd be rich, Lennie. We'd have a little place. An' we'd have our own rabbits, wouldn't we?" (Chapter 1) While this quote primarily reflects George's dream of a better life, it also hints at his desire for stability and belonging. The "little place" and "our own rabbits" represent a home and shared purpose, which would alleviate his loneliness.
While George never explicitly states "I am lonely," his actions, thoughts, and words throughout the story reveal a profound need for companionship. The relationship with Lennie, while complex, fulfills that need in many ways, even if it comes with its own unique challenges.