No one captured the American zeitgeist during the time of the Great Depression more definitively than John Steinbeck. His “Of Mice and Men” is a gripping tale that examines the human spirit and the power – and tragedy – of friendship.

The Chenango River Theatre in Greene is closing out its 2010 season with the Steinbeck classic, which debuted last week and runs through Oct. 24. It seems a bit odd to call a 70-plus year old tale timely, but the themes of “Of Mice and Men” still ring true today. We still dream of being our own boss; we still draw strength from the bonds of brotherhood; we still destroy that which we love the most.