This scene shows Curly wanting to fight Lennie. This shows characterization of Curley. Curley is a hot-headed person that would want to fight and hate anyone that is taller than him.
The theme of failed dreams can connect to Curley's wife. Curley's wife always wanted to become an actress in Hollywood, but she was never able to become one.
Simile: A snake slipped along the pool, its head held up like a little periscope (7).
