Of Mice and Men: Writer's Techniques – iGCSE English Literature Edexcel Revision

Of Mice and Men: Writer’s Techniques

Steinbeck uses direct and indirect characterisation to present his characters. He utilises descriptive language directly for physical appearances. For instance, he describes Lennie as ‘a huge man, shapeless of face’.
Over time, Steinbeck uses dialogue and characters’ actions to convey their hidden depths and complexities. For example, Curley’s wife is initially portrayed as helpless and dangerous, but later her dreams and loneliness are reveal.
Steinbeck very effectively utilises foil characters. George & Lennie, and Candy & his dog are excellent examples. These reinforce the themes of friendship, loneliness and the harsh reality of life.

The novella’s settings are rich with symbolism. They reflect the themes and foreshadow future events. The idyllic poolside, where the story both begins and ends, signifies sanctuary but also foreshadows Lennie’s demise.
The bunkhouse setting conveys the bleak existence of the migrant workers, representing isolation and hopelessness.
Steinbeck uses animals symbolically throughout the novella. Rabbits signify Lennie’s dreams, while Candy’s dog echoes the fate of those deemed unproductive in society.

Steinbeck skillfully employs foreshadowing. The tragic ending is suggested in several incidents such as the death of Candy’s dog and Lennie’s killing of the mice and puppy.
Candy’s regret over not ending his dog’s suffering himself foreshadows George’s decision to personally kill Lennie, rather than let others do it.
Lennie’s attraction to soft things and his inability to control his strength foreshadows trouble that follows him, notably the incident with Curley’s wife.

‘Of Mice and Men’ is famous for its authentic dialect. Steinbeck captured the unique speech patterns, phrases and slang of migrant workers, making the dialogue realistic.
Use of similes and metaphors add depth to the descriptions. For instance, Lennie is often compared to animals, underlining his physical strength and limited mental ability.
The minimalist and descriptive style of Steinbeck’s writing creates a realistic depiction of time and place, and it enhances the emotional impact of the story.

The novella follows a circular structure. It begins and ends at the same location, denoting the unchangeable fate of characters.
Steinbeck utilises a linear narrative structure helping readers follow the storyline with relative ease.
The third person omniscient narration allows an objective viewpoint into the characters’ actions, thoughts and the context of the time.