1. Hope and Dream: The letter, which describes a farm for sale in California, represents the ultimate dream for George and Lennie: a place where they can finally be independent and have their own land. It reignites their hope, reminding them of the future they are striving for.
2. Contrast with Reality: The letter, with its idyllic image of a farm, stands in stark contrast to the harsh reality of their situation. They are migrant workers, constantly on the move, struggling to survive and facing prejudice and exploitation. This contrast underscores the distance between their dreams and the reality they face.
3. Foreshadowing: The letter also serves as foreshadowing. While it represents hope, it also foreshadows the fragility of their dream. The letter's mention of a "small place" suggests the potential difficulties of sustaining their own farm, highlighting the challenges they will face in achieving their goal.
4. Symbolic of the American Dream: The letter can be seen as a symbol of the American Dream, which was a powerful idea in the 1930s during the Great Depression. This dream promised opportunity and prosperity to those who worked hard and followed the rules. However, the letter also highlights the limitations and complexities of this dream, suggesting that it may not be attainable for everyone.
5. Motivation: The letter acts as a source of motivation for George and Lennie. It gives them a reason to keep working, to save money, and to keep their dream alive. It provides a purpose and a direction for their lives, even in the face of hardship and uncertainty.
Overall, the letter from Bill Tenner in "Of Mice and Men" serves as a potent symbol of hope, dream, and the complex realities of the American Dream. It reinforces the theme of the novel, which explores the struggle for a better life in a harsh and unforgiving world.