Question

In lines 6-7, Carlson, in trying to persuade Candy to kill his old dog, says, "Got no teeth...He's all stiff with rheumatism. He ain't no good to you, Candy." In line 9, Candy squirmed uncomfortably. Besides being clearly disturbed by the prospect of his dog being murdered, what else do you think Candy could be considering at this moment, regarding his own life?

a) His own health and well-being
b) The fate of his other pets
c) His loyalty to his friend
d) His financial situation

Answer 1

Candy's discomfort upon Carlson's suggestion to put his dog down likely reflects his own fears about his value and future, given his age and disability, tying into the themes of disposability and utilitarianism in society from Steinbeck's novel.

Step-by-step explanation:

In lines 6-7 of John Steinbeck's 'Of Mice and Men', Carlson suggests to Candy that it's time to put his old dog down. Upon hearing this, and feeling uncomfortable, Candy might be contemplating his own value and future on the farm, considering he is also aging and disabled. The discomfort Candy experiences could stem from a fear not just for his dog's life, but also for his own aging and usefulness, hinting at a larger theme of the book which is the disposability of individuals who no longer serve a purpose in a utilitarian society.

Candy's reaction suggests he is reflecting on his own health and well-being, his loyalty to his old friend, the dog, and possibly realizing the cruel inevitability of his fate within a society that values productivity over compassion. This mirrors the anxiety elderly workers might feel as they approach the end of their careers, especially when they link their self-worth to their ability to work or care for others.