Essay. Views. 1673. Friendship is a lasting and essential aspect of leading a fulfilling life. This theme resonates strongly in John Steinbeck's short story Of Mice and Men, which is set against the backdrop of the Great Depression, a time marked by pervasive distrust and shattered dreams. In this story, we follow the Essay. Views. 3423. John Steinbeck's short story Of Mice and Men delves into the complexities of friendship, humanity, and the harsh realities of the world. Through the use of foreshadowing, Steinbeck provides readers with subtle hints and clues to the events taking place in the story. This literary technique not only, Conclusion. In Of Mice and Men, John Steinbeck uses symbolism and characterization to provide a poignant commentary on the pursuit of the American dream. Through the symbolism of light and hope, Steinbeck highlights the fleeting and deceptive nature of aspirations, while the character of Crooks starkly reminds us, John Steinbeck shows how important a friendship is and how important two people can support each other to survive. Remove that connection and it creates a difficult and almost impossible journey for the two men in this novel. John Steinbeck depicts Lennie and George as having the greatest friendship in the world and while George,