In
chapter four, Candy enters Crooks's room to findand begins discussing their dream of one day
owning an estate, where they will live off the land and enjoy a life of independence. After
listening to their dream, Crooks ridicules Candy, , and Lennie and says that they will never
earn enough money to purchase an estate. According to Crooks, nearly every migrant worker on the
farm has dreams of owning land but their dreams never come to fruition. Crooks believes that
Candy, George, and Lennie are simply fantasizing and does not take their dream seriously. He
even tells Candy that he will remain a swamper on the ranch until the day he dies and assumes
Lennie will leave in two weeks with George.
However, Candy responds to
Crooks's criticism and negative perspective by mentioning that George has the majority of his
money in the bank and with his help, they have enough money to purchase an estate. Candy also
informs Crooks that George already has an affordable place picked out and it is only a matter of
time before they buy it. Once Crooks hears that Candy, George, and Lennie have enough money
saved and a placed picked out, his attitude and perspective changes regarding their dream.
Initially, Crooks is astonished to hear the news and gradually begins to share the same fantasy.
Crooks then attempts to contribute to their dream by telling Candy,
"...If you... guys would want a hand to work for nothing- just his keep, why I'd
come an' lend a hand. I ain't so crippled I can't work like a son-of-a-bitch if I want to"
(Steinbeck, 39).
Before Candy can respond to Crooks's
comment, Curley's wife enters the room and interrupts their conversation. Overall, Crooks
changes his mind regarding Candy, George, and Lennie's dream when he learns that they have saved
enough money and picked out a home.
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