Discuss the significance of Candy's dream to the American Dream in Of Mice and Men.

I think that one of the critical elements to the American
Dream is the idea of being a part of a community.  This collective notion of the good
helps to enhance the idea that the American Dream is worth pursuing.  I think that this
is a part of Candy's dream that is in line with the American Dream.  Candy seeks to
belong, to be a part of something with George and Lennie.  After Carlson takes shoots
Candy's dog, Candy realizes that there is a certain power in solidarity.  This becomes a
part of his dream.  Candy understands that the isolation and alienation featured in not
speaking up for his dog is the opposite to any notion of dreaming or conceiving of
dreams.  At the same time, when Candy recognizes that "his lot" can be combined with the
amount of money that George and Lennie has could allow all of them to experience life to
a greater degree than being alone.  In this collectivized and community based notion of
the good, Candy's dream is linked to an American Dream where community and solidarity is
evident in the dreams of individuals.