Table of ContentsIsolation and LonelinessThe Illusion of ControlThe Fragility of RelationshipsConclusionCard games have long been used as metaphors in literature to convey various themes and ideas . In John Steinbeck's classic short story "Of Mice and Men," the solitaire card game serves as a powerful metaphor that symbolizes the isolation and loneliness experienced by the characters. Throughout the text, George, one of the main protagonists, plays solitaire several times, emphasizing his own struggle with loneliness and the larger theme of the human condition. This essay will explore the meaning of the lonely metaphor in “Of Mice and Men” and its implications for the characters and their relationships. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get the original essayIsolation and LonelinessOne of the main reasons George plays solitaire in the short story is to alleviate his feelings of isolation and of loneliness. As the sole caretaker of his mentally disabled friend, Lennie, George often finds himself in a state of emotional and psychological loneliness. Solitary play becomes for him a means of temporarily escaping the weight of his responsibilities and the harsh realities of his situation. Steinbeck writes, “George shuffled the cards and played solitaire by himself, the cards clicking gently in the quiet” (Steinbeck 22). This description not only highlights George's physical and emotional separation from others, but also suggests that solitary is his way of seeking companionship in the absence of human connection. Additionally, the metaphor of the lonely extends beyond George's personal experience and reflects the general sense of isolation felt by all. the characters of the story. Each character, whether it's Candy, Crooks, or Curley's wife, faces their own form of loneliness. They are all trapped in their individual situations and unable to escape their solitary existence. Steinbeck uses the metaphor of the lonely to emphasize the universal nature of loneliness and the inability of individuals to break free from their isolated lives. The Illusion of Control Another aspect of the solitaire metaphor in “Of Mice and Men” is the illusion of control it provides. In solitaire, players have complete control over the outcome. They make decisions and strategically move the cards to achieve the desired outcome. Likewise, George's decision to play solitaire represents his desire for control in a world filled with uncertainty and unpredictability. George often mentions playing cards as a way to assert his independence and confidence. For example, when Lennie accidentally kills a puppy, George angrily says, "You're not as small as a mouse." I didn’t bounce you hard” (Steinbeck 85). Here, George's reference to the game of solitaire suggests that he believes he can control and manipulate the events around him, just as he can control the cards in the game. However, this illusion of control is shattered throughout the novella. when George realizes that he cannot protect Lennie from the consequences of his actions, which ultimately leads to the tragic ending of the story. The Fragility of Relationships The solitaire metaphor also highlights the fragility of relationships in "Of Mice and Men." In the game, the player's goal is to create a sequence of cards that fit together perfectly. Likewise, the Characters in the short story long for companionship and understanding, but their relationships often fall apart due to the harsh realities of their situation. George's relationship., 2002.