During the great depression, George and Lennie roam over California looking for odd jobs. They have a dream of buying some land and live there together, and that dream keeps them going. George is smart and cares for Lennie that is very strong, but witless. They find a new job and a new partner, and as their dream begin to takes off, it comes crashing down in a horrible way.

To me, the main theme of this story is loneliness and it is no coincidence that they are in a place called "Soledad". Each character is lonely and in need of companionship, and each reacts to it in a different but coherent way. Lennie and George are different, they act like brothers and people around them want to share that feeling of having someone. Unfortunately, it is the close bond between George and Lennie that drives them apart and turns their plans to dust.