Question

Consider the symbolism and meaning behind the title. Read Robert Burn’s poem, “To A Mouse”. Throughout the novel, John Steinbeck argues that “the best-laid plans of mice and men” often go wrong. Explain how he attempts to show this in the novel. Be sure to cite specific examples from the novel in comparison to the poem.

Answer 1

The title of "Of Mice and Men" comes from Burns' poem. In his poem, Burns says that the best-laid plans of mice and men often go wrong. This theme is exemplified in Steinbeck's novel through the plans George and Lenny make.

Throughout the novel, George and Lenny plan to save their money and buy a farm. Lenny is particularly looking forward to having rabbits of his own. They spend a lot of time discussing the farm and the freedom they will soon have. These plans are, as Burns would say, "best-laid," or well planned.

Of course, as Burns' poem says, these plans go wrong. Lenny accidentally kills Curley's wife and must run away. As a result, Lenny dies and George knows in his heart he will never have the farm that he and Lenny had dreamed of for so long. He knows he will spend his money drinking like the other men and trying to forget his troubles.

And so, the best-laid plans of George and Lenny surely went wrong.