The best laid schemes of mice and men make fine excuses, too

“The best laid schemes of mice and men often go awry.”

Author John Steinbeck borrowed these well-worn words from poet Robert Burns when he wrote his 1937 novel, “Of Mice and Men.”

Today, the word “scheme” is often replaced by “plans,” and it just seems to sound better. Schemes just seem to have rocky connotations, where plans appear well drawn out. Regardless, the meaning holds true.

In not so many words, the plot of the book follows Depression-era migrant workers, George and Lenny, who see their plans of owning a farm really go awry. Google the title and in a few paragraphs you’ll get the dri...