Of Mice and Men bears a few similarities to that of a play script in both its content and structure. To begin, the novella is separated into six separate sections, much like a play is organized by scenes; that is, as opposed to being separated or organized by chapters in a traditional book. Additionally, each of these separate scenes has a clearly defined, visually described setting, as each would have in a play.

The settings are symbolic in their function and represent ideas such as conflict, fear, safety and friendship. A clear example of this symbolic function can be seen with the events that unfold at the bunkhouse. The bunkhouse is a symbol of conflict, as violence and suspicion all occur here.