Final Answer:
In Chapter 3 of "Of Mice and Men," John Steinbeck employs a metaphor to explore the theme of isolation. He describes Crooks' room as a place where "books and a bottle of pills lay scattered around," emphasizing the isolation and loneliness Crooks experiences.
The metaphor of scattered pills symbolizes the fragmented and disconnected nature of Crooks' life, reflecting the broader theme of social alienation and the challenges faced by marginalized individuals on the ranch.
Step-by-step explanation:
The final answer provides an analysis of how Steinbeck uses a metaphor in Chapter 3 of "Of Mice and Men" to delve into the theme of isolation.
It includes a specific detail from the text, referring to Crooks' room and the scattered pills, to support the interpretation of the metaphor and its connection to the broader theme of loneliness and social disconnection in the novel.