In John Steinbeck’s novella Of Mice and Men, George tells a lie about the circumstances surrounding Lennie’s death. When asked about the incident that led to Lennie’s demise, George fabricates a story to protect his friend’s memory and to shield himself from the harsh reality of the situation.
George claims that Lennie was a dangerous man who killed Curley’s wife and was planning to kill more people. This exaggeration serves multiple purposes. First, it frames Lennie as a threat, which helps justify George’s decision to end Lennie’s life. By doing so, George manages to distance himself from the guilt of killing his best friend. He crafts a narrative that casts Lennie in a negative light, all while internally grappling with the love and care he genuinely had for him.
This lie also serves as a coping mechanism for George. He cannot bear the weight of his actions and the society that fails to understand the bond they shared. Ultimately, George’s lie reflects the societal norms and fears of the time, highlighting themes of friendship, responsibility, and the harsh realities faced by those who are different, like Lennie.