John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men is a poignant exploration of loneliness, dreams, and the harsh realities of the American Dream during the Great Depression. While the novel prominently features the discrimination faced by George and Lennie due to Lennie's intellectual disability, Candy, an aging ranch hand, offers a nuanced perspective on a different kind of discrimination: that based on age and perceived uselessness. Through his insightful quotes and actions, Candy’s plight illuminates the broader theme of societal prejudice within the novel’s setting.
Candy's Plight: A Microcosm of Societal Prejudice
Candy, with his aging body and trusty old dog, represents the vulnerability of those deemed unproductive in a society that values strength and youth above all else. His fear of being "canned" – fired – due to his aging and diminished physical capabilities underscores the brutal reality of his situation. He's acutely aware of his dwindling worth in the eyes of his employers, a constant anxiety that shapes his actions and dialogue.
"I ought to of shot that dog myself, George."
This quote, delivered after Carlson shoots Candy's dog, reveals a deep-seated understanding of the cruel indifference of the world. Candy’s regret isn't solely about losing his companion; it reflects his premonition of his own impending fate. He sees the dog's death as a foreshadowing of his own eventual disposability. The callous way Carlson dispatches the dog mirrors the callous way society might dispose of Candy when he's no longer deemed useful. This chilling parallel highlights the theme of discrimination based on age and perceived uselessness.
"I'll be a burden on you guys."
This statement reveals Candy's self-awareness of his impending obsolescence. He anticipates becoming a drain on the resources of others and anticipates rejection. This self-deprecating sentiment stems from his understanding of the harsh realities of the ranch and the societal values that govern it. The fear of becoming a burden isn't simply a personal fear; it's a reflection of the societal expectation that the old and infirm are dispensable.
"If I get canned, I'll go to hell, I'll have no place to go."
This desperation underscores Candy's complete lack of security and self-worth in the system. The language ("go to hell") is hyperbolic, emphasizing the total lack of safety net available to him. The lack of social support and the fear of homelessness further amplify the devastating consequences of age-based discrimination. Without a place to go, without means to provide for himself, his vulnerability is stark and deeply unsettling.
How Candy's Experience Relates to Other Characters
Candy’s situation is distinct from, yet interwoven with, the prejudice experienced by other characters. While Lennie's intellectual disability makes him a target of fear and misunderstanding, Candy’s age and physical limitations similarly render him vulnerable. Both characters are marginalized and face the threat of exclusion and even violence. Their shared vulnerability fosters a bond of empathy and mutual understanding, strengthening their collective desire to achieve the American dream and escape their precarious position.
Beyond the Ranch: The Broader Significance
Candy's experiences resonate far beyond the confines of the ranch setting. His story reflects the broader societal issues of ageism and the marginalization of the elderly and physically challenged, prevalent throughout history and still relevant today. His plight serves as a powerful reminder of the need for compassion, empathy, and social support systems that ensure the dignity and well-being of all members of society, regardless of age or ability. The novel prompts us to question how we treat the elderly and vulnerable in our own society, challenging us to consider the ethical implications of discarding individuals once they are perceived as no longer productive.
This deeper analysis of Candy's role and his significant quotes reveals the pervasive nature of discrimination in Of Mice and Men, extending beyond the obvious case of Lennie's intellectual disability to encompass a broader societal critique of how we value human life based on perceived usefulness.
