Discussion Topic
What are some quotes that describe Slim in Of Mice and Men?
Summary:
In John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men, Slim is depicted as a figure of natural authority and respect. Described as a "prince of the ranch" and possessing "god-like" eyes, Slim commands respect through his quiet confidence and competence, unlike other characters who rely on bullying. His profound influence is evident when others, like Candy, seek his judgment. Slim's insightful observations, such as "Maybe ever'body in the whole damn world is scared of each other," highlight his perceptive nature and moral authority.
What quote from Of Mice and Men reveals Slim's personality?
There is actually another quote where Slim is introduced to us in Chapter 2. Whilst George and Lennie are in the bunkerhouse, Slim enters:
A tall man stood in the doorway. He held a crushed Stetson hat under his arm while he combed his long, black, damp hair straight back. Like the others he wore blue jeans and a short denim jacket. When he had finished combing his hair he moved into the room, and he moved with a kajesty only achieved by royalty and master craftsmen. He was a jerkline skinner, th eprince of the ranch, capable of driving ten, sixteen, even twenty mules with a single line to the leaders... There was a graviy in his manner and a quiet so profound that all talk stopped when he spoke. His authority was so great that his word was taken on any subject, be it politics or love.
Here,...
Unlock This Answer Now
Start your 48-hour free trial and get ahead in class. Boost your grades with access to expert answers and top-tier study guides. Thousands of students are already mastering their assignments—don't miss out. Cancel anytime.
Already a member? Log in here.
then, you have an excellent description of Slim. Note how he is different to the other characters, particularly Curly. He has natural authority and confidence and does not need to bully or swagger. He is also very good at what he does and is respected by all other characters. He is very kind and perceptive - note how it is he who tries to comfort George at the end of the novel whilst the other characters walk off. And finally, he is a doer instead of a dreamer - he takes great pride in the high quality of his work and gains respect as a result.
What are significant quotes that describe Slim in Of Mice and Men?
I think that you can find ten descriptions given how Steinbeck demonstrates a reverence for him. Steinbeck holds a great deal of respect for Slim. Consider his "god- like" eyes, and the manner in which his initial description captures the latter part of the second chapter. The authority in which Slim carries himself is evident when Candy searches for anyone to help sustain the life of his dog. The narration indicates that Candy, through his eyes, waits for Slim's judgment and when Slim doesn't give it, Candy relents to the dog being killed. Slim is the authority figure and it is not surprising that the opening of chapter 3 features George speaking with him in a "confessional" type of description. This is the kind of detail that convinces the reader that Slim holds a position of authority on the ranch, and assumes a role that is not to be doubted or questioned. Another hint given as to how Steinbeck thinks of Slim is that he gives him the lines that render judgment on humanity. It is slim that comes up with the idea that "Maybe ever’body in the whole damn world is scared of each other" and distilling the difference between "smart" and "nice" individuals. I think that this type of lauding description through both speech and narration can be found throughout the novel.