Crooks also has an optimistic side of his character, thanks to his relationship with Slim. Employed as a lowly 'stable buck', Crooks experiences prejudice from all the workers on the ranch because of his skin color, and this persecution leaves him bitter. However, neither prejudice from Slim, nor bitterness from Crooks, exists in their relationship. They have mutual respect – Slim associates with Crooks' love of animals and with the knowledge that he is valued, Crooks politely addresses 'Mr. Slim'. Slim dignifies Crooks' identity saying 'Hello Crooks', using his name, which …show more content…
The possibility of a brighter future creates hope and perseverance in him to carry on living, and he is willing to give everything he owns to make the best of his last few years, and to die with a sense of achievement. Despite the desolation of losing his dog, the American Dream is re-ignited inside him – the possibility of owning land and being free is enough for him to guarantee George and Lennie his share, 'I'll make a will an' leave my share to you guys in case I kick off'. He has not given up hope, and is, like Crooks, an example of how human spirit can survive, even in the most depressed circumstances – he has still not given up hope despite outliving his