Relationship Between George And Lennie

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George and Lennie have an unusual relationship for itinerant workers which can be viewed in different ways as throughout the novel George is Lennie's carer, father figure, and brother. He is a man of principle; promising Aunt Clara that he would take care of Lennie. Also, no matter how impatient or angry George gets, he always forgives Lennie for his wrongdoings. In the opening passage introducing them, Lennie acts very childish and immature allowing us to see their ‘father son’ bond, “Lennie!” he said sharply. “Lennie, for God’ sakes don’t drink so much.”Lennie continued to snort into the pool.’ George uses negative suggestion; Children are particularly prone to it as they are constantly told, ‘don’t do this’ and ‘don’t do that’ the more they try not to do something the likely they are going to give in and do it. Lennie continuing to ‘snort’ the water is a classic sign of this. Also, the fact that they walk ‘single file’ leads and it quickly becomes apparent that it is Lennie following George. Further on in the chapter this father son idea continues, ‘George looked sharply at him. “What’d you take outa that pocket?” “Ain’t a thing in my pocket,” Lennie said cleverly.’ Lenny isn’t lying because he had already removed it; he says this because he knows he shouldn’t have it and doesn’t want to get in trouble for having it. Later on in the chapter we discover that it is a dead mouse that he is ‘pettin.’ As well as that, Lennie uses reverse psychology in order for George to admit he wants Lennie to stay, ““If you don’ want me I can go off in the hills an’ find a cave. I can go away any time.” “No—look! I was jus’ foolin’, Lennie. ‘Cause I want you to stay with me.’ Reverse psychology is also often used by children which originates from their parents to get them to obey The fact that George could have easily just left Lennie illustrates that they have a very
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