John Steinbeck's 'Of Mice and Men' is a poignant novella that explores the tragic lives of itinerant farmworkers George Milton and Lennie Small during the Great Depression. Their shared dream of owning a small plot of land fuels their arduous journey and deepens their unlikely bond. Steinbeck masterfully portrays themes of companionship, loneliness, and the elusive nature of the American Dream, set against the harsh realities of agricultural labor. The narrative, known for its powerful symbolism and stark realism, delves into the human struggle for dignity and belonging, ultimately leading to an unforgettable and heartbreaking climax that questions the true cost of unfulfilled aspirations.