George, a level-headed and responsible man, takes care of Lennie, who has the mind of a child but a strong desire to be loved. Despite Lennie's limitations, George remains fiercely loyal and protective of him.
The two meet Curley, the mean-spirited son of the ranch owner; his beautiful but lonely wife; and Candy, an aging ranch hand who dreams of owning a small farm with them. As their lives intersect, Lennie's tragic flaws lead to tension and conflict, ultimately culminating in a heartbreaking ending.
Throughout the novella, Steinbeck explores themes of friendship, loneliness, and the American Dream, capturing the challenges faced by marginalized individuals during a time of economic hardship. "Of Mice and Men" is a poignant and enduring classic of American literature that delves into the complexities of human nature and the search for belonging.