Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression, this novella demonstrates the fragility of dreams and the ease and speed with which dreams can be lost. George and Lennie dream of owning their own farm, and this dream keeps George motivated in the face of hardship. George understands the importance of dreams and their connection to hope. As Lennie’s caretaker, he dreams of a life for Lennie and himself where they can have agency over their own days and their futures, and when Lennie is in a particularly needy place, George relies on stories and descriptions of their dream to soothe him.

The dream farm also impacts other characters in the novella, Candy and Crooks in particular. Candy is old, and he feels his usefulness on the ranch is diminishing, so the dream farm that he can help purchase gives him a sense of peace in the thought that his last years on earth might actually be pleasant. As well, Crooks enjoys a brief hopeful moment, offering Candy his services for free, just as long as he can partake in the upkeep of the farm and live comfortably and as an equal among men who don’t disrespect him for being Black.