Final answer:
In Steinbeck's 'Of Mice and Men', a dog being disliked and not wanted around symbolizes broader societal rejection and marginalization.
Step-by-step explanation:
The literary excerpts you've provided seem to touch on themes of despair, societal roles, the impact of technology on family, and the nature of reality versus illusion. Specifically, in the context of John Steinbeck’s novel 'Of Mice and Men', when characters do not like someone's dog and do not want it around, it can be interpreted more broadly to reflect on themes of isolation and the desire for acceptance. The dog might symbolize things that are often rejected by society - such as disability, race, or social status - and the animal's presence can amplify the marginalization felt by the characters within the story.
The disdain for the dog speaks to the larger societal issues that Steinbeck explores, including the hardships faced by those who are perceived as different or unworthy of compassion. Through this lens, rejection of the dog stands in for the larger rejection faced by individuals who, like the beloved dog, are simply striving for survival and companionship in a world that is frequently unkind and inhospitable to those who do not fit within narrow definitions of acceptability.
Understanding these nuances helps illustrate the importance of empathy and the human condition. Steinbeck's narrative serves as a critique of the American Dream and the ruthless nature of society during the Great Depression, questioning the ideals of freedom and prosperity and highlighting the plight of marginalized individuals.