John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men is a poignant tale of friendship and the harsh realities of the American Dream. While often remembered for its themes of loneliness and companionship, the character of Candy, the aging ranch hand, embodies a potent undercurrent of simmering anger and frustration. His anger, though rarely explosive, is deeply felt and subtly expressed throughout the novella. Understanding Candy's anger is key to understanding the novel's overall message about disillusionment and the fragility of hope. This exploration delves into the quotes that reveal Candy's frustration and the underlying causes of his rage.
What Makes Candy So Angry? The Roots of His Frustration
Candy's anger stems from a complex interplay of factors, all rooted in his marginalized position within the harsh world of the ranch. His old age and physical limitations render him vulnerable and expendable in the eyes of his employers. He feels the constant pressure of impending unemployment and the terrifying prospect of a lonely, destitute old age. The loss of his dog, a significant source of companionship, further amplifies his sense of isolation and vulnerability.
Key Quotes Revealing Candy's Anger and Frustration
Let's examine some crucial quotes that showcase Candy's simmering rage:
"I ought to of shot that dog myself, George. I shouldn't ought to of let no stranger shoot my dog." This quote reveals not only regret but also a deep sense of betrayal and helplessness. Candy feels responsible for his dog's death, yet he was powerless to prevent it. This reinforces his underlying fear of being helpless against the forces that threaten his existence. The anger here is directed both inward, at himself for his inaction, and outward, at George for carrying out the deed.
"If I die, they'll take my money." This is a chilling statement that highlights Candy's profound fear of the future. He's worked hard all his life, but his savings offer him little security. The threat of losing everything fuels his anxiety and frustration, leading to a quiet, simmering anger at the unfairness of his situation.
"I ain't got no people. I seen 'em all die off." This stark confession reveals the profound loneliness that fuels Candy's anger. He's witnessed the deaths of loved ones and faces the terrifying prospect of dying alone and forgotten. This isolation intensifies his frustration and fuels his desperate need for connection and belonging.
“S’pose they found out about that? What would they do?” (referring to his involvement with Lennie and George's dream) This quote displays Candy’s fear of losing his stake in the dream farm. His anger here is born out of the vulnerability of his position, his reliance on the kindness of strangers. The threat of losing his only hope fuels a quiet resentment and desperation.
How Does Candy's Anger Affect the Story?
Candy's anger, while understated, significantly contributes to the overall atmosphere of Of Mice and Men. It underlines the harsh realities faced by marginalized individuals during the Great Depression and underscores the pervasive sense of hopelessness and injustice. His quiet rage adds layers of complexity to the story, highlighting the human cost of economic hardship and social inequity.
What are the other characters' reactions to Candy's Anger?
While Candy rarely expresses his anger outwardly, the other characters respond to the underlying tension and frustration they sense in him. George, though sympathetic, is largely dismissive of Candy's emotional state; he’s preoccupied with his own issues and Lennie's. The other ranch hands, meanwhile, typically disregard Candy, further emphasizing his social isolation and contributing to his sense of powerlessness.
What is the significance of Candy's character?
Candy’s character acts as a powerful representation of the plight of the marginalized and elderly during the Great Depression. His quiet anger serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of social inequality and the importance of empathy and compassion. He reminds us that even in the most seemingly insignificant characters, deep and complex emotions can lie hidden.
Through these quotes and a deeper analysis of his character, we see that Candy's anger is not simply a burst of rage; it is a profound and complex emotion reflecting the disillusionment and despair that permeates the novel's central themes. His story serves as a potent reminder of the injustices faced by those on the margins of society and the enduring power of hope in the face of adversity.
