Why the title "Of Mice and Men" was chosen?

Question

I'm currently reading the book, of mice and men by john steinbeck, and I have a test tomorrow. The teacher already told us this question was going to be on the quiz, but I can't figure out the title's significance!

By the way, I already know this title was in Burn's poem. "The best laid plans of mice and men often go awry." I need to know why Steinbeck chose "Of Mice and Men" for the title. The teacher told us it had something to do with animals?

Answer 1

I bet it has to do with the farm that George and Lenny wanted. They finally got to a point to where they might be able to get it and then Lenny has his little accident and George has to take care of him at the end.

Answer 2

I think your teacher is wrong. It simply refers to the big plans George and Lennie had, and the fact that, when they actually seemed to be within reach, it all came crashing down. The animal imagery with Lennie killing the mice may be seen as a continuation of the metaphor, as none of the mice planned to be crushed in someones hand.

Answer 3

Lennie's mice... ooh i didn't know about the poem. what's it called? i would say, look at the line you gave us, and think about themes in the book. there is a connection.

Answer 4

Doesn't Lenny squeeze a mouse too hard and kill it? And later do the same with a woman?

I can't remember.