Albert Camus' existential outlook in the Stranger (and everywhere else) gives his writing a uniquely Benjamin-ian perspective. For the first half of The Stranger, everyone Meursault meets, he speaks to, interacts with, and assesses mentally. He sees them as individuals and seems to understand their identities, but his existentialism adds an unforeseen level: he doesn't care.
When people come to Meursault with their problems, he generally listens to them and takes in what they have told him, but goes no further. He doesn't form opinions or interfere in the business of others unless they give him no other choice. When old Salamano loses his dog, he goes to Meursault for help and comfort (which is an interesting choice) and is met with indifference. Meursault tells him to check the pound, then sits quietly for a while, barely listening to Salamano and yawning (44).
Meursault tries to maintain good relationships with others for the most part because he understands their role as individuals, but beyond that, he has little interest in their affairs and he shows it.
Graham, I really like your thesis on Meursault´s role in The Stranger. In hindsight, he seems to fit in as a man of good nature who is unintentionally recognized by others in a world that he doesn´t seem to fit into.
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