Slim quotes

Question 1

“Ain’t many guys travel around together. I don’t know why. Maybe ever’body in the whole damn world is scared of each other.”

Answer 1

Slim’s philosophical observation about human isolation. Economic competition intensified isolation and mistrust during the Depression.

Question 2

“Candy looked helplessly at him, for Slim’s opinions were law”

Answer 2

Shows Slim’s respected position as advisor and moral authority. Older skilled workers often served as informal moral authorities in transient workplaces.

Question 3

“You hadda, George. I swear you hadda.”

Answer 3

Slim’s absolution of George after Lennie’s death. Peer validation was crucial in moral decision-making absent formal justice systems.

Question 4

“His ear heard more than was said to him, and his slow speech had overtones not of thought, but of understanding beyond thought.”

Answer 4

Establishes Slim’s intuitive wisdom and perception. Experience-based wisdom was valued in environments with limited formal education.

Question 5

“Maybe ever’body in the whole damn world is scared of each other.”

Answer 5

Slim’s insight into universal human fear and isolation. The Depression heightened social anxiety and competition for scarce resources.

Question 6

“He’s a good skinner. He can rassel grain bags, drive a cultivator. He can do anything. Just give him a try.” Slim about George

Answer 6

Shows Slim’s influence as a respected worker who can vouch for others. Personal recommendations were crucial in securing work during high unemployment.

Question 7

“It jus’ seems kinda funny a cuckoo like him and a smart little guy like you travelin’ together.”

Answer 7

Slim’s curiosity about George and Lennie’s unusual partnership. Mutual care arrangements were unusual among transient male workers.

Question 8

“It ain’t your fault. This punk sure had it comin’ to him.” Slim about Curley

Answer 8

Shows Slim’s moral authority and judgment. Peer judgment often carried more weight than formal authority in worker communities.

Question 9

“Guy don’t need no sense to be a nice fella.” Slim about Lennie

Answer 9

Shows limits to Slim’s empathy when it comes to practical decisions. Sentimentality was often viewed as impractical during economic hardship.