Before tragically ending Lennie's life, George offered him a series of comforting reassurances and promises, aiming to provide a peaceful and familiar end to their shared dream. His words were designed to evoke their long-held vision of a safe, independent future, ensuring Lennie felt loved and secure in his final moments.
The Promises and Reassurances
George conveyed several key messages to Lennie, focusing on their bond and Lennie's future well-being, paradoxically, in the moments leading up to his death. These statements were a final act of compassion, ensuring Lennie was at ease and unaware of George's true intention.
Here's a breakdown of what George communicated:
- A Shared Future: George emphasized that it would be the two of them there together forever. This echoed their long-standing dream of owning a small farm and living independently, a dream that provided Lennie immense comfort and hope.
- Protection from Harm: He assured Lennie that nobody would ever hurt him again. This promise directly addressed Lennie's vulnerability and the constant threats he faced due to his strength and lack of understanding.
- Absence of Anger: As the sound of the other men approaching grew near, George explicitly reassured Lennie that he wasn't mad at him.
- Enduring Affection: He further confirmed his unchanging feelings, stating that he never was mad at him. This final reassurance underlined the deep, protective bond George felt for Lennie, despite the challenges Lennie presented.
For a clearer overview of these final communications, consider the following:
| Type of Communication | What George Conveyed to Lennie |
|---|---|
| Promise of Permanence | That it would be the two of them there together forever. |
| Assurance of Safety | That nobody would ever hurt him again. |
| Reassurance of Feelings | That he wasn't mad at him, and he never was mad at him. |
These words were George's final, heart-wrenching gift to Lennie, allowing him to pass away believing in their shared dream and George's unwavering affection. This pivotal moment underscores the tragic themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the harsh realities faced by migrant workers during the Great Depression, as depicted in John Steinbeck's enduring novel, Of Mice and Men.
