"From a Mouse" "To A Mouse" is the inspiration for John Steinbeck's novel Of Mice and Men. After plows up a mouse's nest, a farmer apologizes to the small creature and assures it that he means no harm. He also claims he doesn't mind if the mouse snatches an ear of corn every now and again. The mouse replies, "That's all right," before adding, "A man's life isn't worth much anyway." This short story is particularly significant because it deals with society's view on animals. Generally speaking, people don't like animals, especially mice. They are seen as dirty and useless creatures that should be controlled because they cause damage by eating food away from humans. However, this particular mouse does not feel this way about itself. It accepts what has been done to it and only wishes to live its life in peace. Also, this story teaches us that even though animals cannot talk, they are still capable of expressing themselves through other means such as gestures. Finally, this story shows us that even though people may dislike animals, there are many good things about them. For example, animals can provide service to those who need it most since they can't speak out for themselves. Animals also show their love by staying with their owners even after they have died which proves that they are not completely cold-blooded like many people think.