Lost Dog

The description of Salamano physically abusing his dog is one of the more vivid images in The Stranger. Salamano is constantly throwing insults at his dog, dragging the pet behind him on their twice-daily walks (27-28). The most telling comment, however, is when Salamano exclaims, "He's always there" (27-28). I believe the connection between Salamano and his dog reflects Meursault's fear of becoming too emotionally invested in another living thing. Scared that he will grow tired of the other and assuming that other will only become a burden on his own life, the comment 'He's always there' encapsulates Meursault's worst fear. Later on, Meursalt finds Salamano searching the street with a flustered expression (38). His dog had escaped. Though Salamano continues to refer to his dog in vulgar terms, he clearly demonstrates a concern that only one with an emotional connection could possess. The author, Camus, may be implying that, though human connection (or in this case the connection between a human and a dog) can create conflict, it is the driving force behind life. However, the sad state of Salamano after he resigns to the reality that he will not reunite with his dog may be seen by Meursault as yet another reason not to pursue such a relationship.

Meursalt's ignorance of human connection was also on display. He attempted to sooth Salamano by telling him that he "could get another dog" (44).Salamano quickly explained that he was "used to this one," (44) exposing Meursalt's inability to attach significance to one emotional being over another. Unsurprisingly, Salamano's situation does not seem to affect Meursalt's mindset in anyway. In fact, Meursalt yawns at one point, after Salamano tells the story of his relationship with his wife and then with his dog. Perhaps Meursalt's lack of reaction underscores the need for a more life-changing event to motivate him into forming emotional connections.