* Authenticity: Steinbeck aimed for realism in his portrayal of the working-class men during the Depression era. These men, often rough and uneducated, used colorful language as a part of their daily communication. Using curse words and foul language made the dialogue more authentic and believable.
* Character Development: The language characters use reveals their personalities and backgrounds. For example, George Milton uses curse words sparingly, reflecting his more thoughtful and responsible nature. Lennie Small, on the other hand, uses language that is more childlike and innocent, reflecting his intellectual disability.
* Social Commentary: Steinbeck uses language to highlight the harsh realities of life for migrant workers during the Depression. The men are constantly struggling with poverty, loneliness, and despair. Their language reflects the frustration and anger they feel.
* Emotional Impact: Curse words and foul language can be used to convey strong emotions, like anger, frustration, or fear. This adds intensity and emotional depth to the narrative, drawing the reader further into the characters' experiences.
* Creating a Sense of Place: The use of colloquialisms and slang specific to the time period and location contributes to the novel's sense of place. The language immerses the reader in the world of the ranch, adding to the story's verisimilitude.
While some readers may find the language offensive, it's important to remember that Steinbeck is not glorifying the use of profanity. Instead, he uses it as a tool to create a more realistic and powerful portrayal of his characters and their world.
Ultimately, Steinbeck's use of curse words and foul language is an integral part of the novel's impact. It contributes to the realism, characterization, social commentary, and emotional resonance of the story.