The novel is definitely the superior between the two when it comes to expressing the main theme of the entire story: loneliness. Although the film also includes the theme of loneliness, the novel better shows the importance of this fundamental theme. All the characters struggle with loneliness in one way or another. An example of loneliness illustrated would be that of Curley's wife. Despite being a flirtatious woman and being described as a "vagabond" by the men on the ranch, she suffers from loneliness due to her husband's strong control and restrictions. In fact, when she has a pleasant conversation with Lennie in the barn, she says, "I tell you, I'm not used to living like this." I could have made something of myself” (Steinbeck 88). Not only is Curley's wife kept on the ranch with all the men, but she is also not allowed to communicate with any of them. She shows that she has high hopes for her future, even though it is highly