George is often upset with Lennie for several reasons that stem from their relationship and the challenges they face in their lives. Lennie, who has a mental disability, does not always understand his own strength or the consequences of his actions. This leads to a number of situations where Lennie unintentionally causes problems, putting himself and George in difficult positions.
One of the primary reasons for George’s frustration is that he is responsible for Lennie. He feels the burden of looking after him, which can be exhausting and stressful. In a harsh world where survival is tough, George wishes for a more carefree life, yet he is anchored to Lennie due to their bond. This often leads to moments of irritation when Lennie’s behavior jeopardizes their dreams or safety.
Moreover, George’s anger sometimes stems from a place of love and protectiveness. He knows that Lennie does not mean to cause harm, yet he worries about the danger his friend faces because of his actions. George’s outbursts can be seen as a mix of frustration at their circumstances and deep concern for Lennie’s future, highlighting the complexity of their friendship.
Overall, George’s constant upset with Lennie reflects the struggles of their lives as itinerant workers during the Great Depression and the challenges that come with caring for someone with special needs. Their dynamic captures the theme of friendship and responsibility, making their relationship both difficult and deeply meaningful.