Comparative Analysis Of Cast Away And Of Mice And Men

Robert Zemeckis and John Steinbeck both explore the notion of hope and relationship in their respective works, ‘Of Mice and Men’ and ‘Cast Away’. To validate the idea that imagination is key to success and survival, both authors create characters that exist in isolation. This allows them to prove that relationships are what can help one feel hopeful and accomplished. Although imagination is the key to success, the idea of having relationships gives you the motivation to change. To remain positive, one must feel connected and have a sense friendship. It is essential to have positive relationships that are supportive of hope and succession. George and Lennie are the only characters in Steinbeck’s Of Mice And Men that have a meaningful relationship. Their optimistic views of having a “little home” even in difficult times suggest their friendship and dedication. In dialogue, Chuck Noland finds himself on an island uninhabited after his crash. Chuck is initially skeptical about his chances of survival, considering his surroundings and the limited equipment he has. Chuck’s imagination is a key ingredient in Wilson the volleyball’s creation. Wilson becomes Chuck’s only friend, his partner, and he helps him navigate through his journey of survival. They have a strong bond that creates hope and security. Crooks’ appearance is the reason he is treated differently within the ranch group. It can be argued that his lack of confidence and lack of aspiration, along with his toneless attitude, are all due to his poor relationship with peers. Kelly Frear was left with a bad attitude and miserable mood after Chuck died on the island. Kelly Frear recovered from his misery and brought back great happiness. It is clear that relationships can prove to be harmful for one another. Both texts explore the theme, “Hope” through different characters. This suggests that people can have motivation, enthusiasm, and positive mental outlooks. Success and achievement depend on the ability to dream big and to set lofty goals. Many characters are influenced by dreams and hopes. If they become lost, their humanity seems to be diminished. Chuck and Wilson have a lot in common. Wilson uses Chuck to help him make verbal judgments about it, such as where to find more and whether he has enough. Chuck almost committed suicide due to the rope. But the rope saved his life. Chuck decides to leave the island and seek help. He grabs Wilson’s rope one hand, then dives into the water the other. He wanted to keep his imagination alive, as Wilson had been the one who had saved him from hardship. But he knew that he needed to stay true to reality and not let his imagination take him away. His hope of safety would soon disappear if he let go the rope. Similar to Lennie, Lennie’s obsession with their “little spot” is what caused Lennie’s death. Ironically, it was the same factor that drove him to his goal of finding safety. It is vital to use imagination in order for one to achieve his or her goals and dreams. However, one should not overlook the fact that reality. Chuck’s imagination helped Wilson survive by creating Wilson with his bloody handsprint. Curley’s spouse had the dream of being “in Hollywood” and Lennie was able to help her with her loneliness and miss opportunities. Candy is a fan of George and Lennie’s plans to “live off a fatta lan’.” This helps the “swapper,” who feels isolated after the death of his dog. The authors both suggest that imagination is essential during tough times. However, reality must not be ruled by pure imagination.

Together with Zemeckis, Steinbeck explores the notion of hope in both their texts. They suggest that imagination, relationships and aspirations are crucial to success. While the authors believe that imagination is key to dreams and hopes, it’s the people around us that can help you achieve your dreams.

Author

  • treyknox

    I am Trey Knox, 26 years old, and I'm a education blogger and teacher. I blog about various subjects in education, and I also teach high school English and writing.