Carlson is competent, confident, and in control. He seems to be a leader amongst the ranch hands, and takes the initiative in stating what they all feel: Candy’s dog needs to go. He has an innate kindness, however, able to talk Candy into putting the dog out of its misery because of its pain and inability to eat. Though this argument can also foreshadow the same argument in regards to Lennie and Candy himself, Carlson volunteers to do the unpleasant job, which Candy is not able to do.
Candy has a sensitivity that is in place of that kind of kindness. He does not want to see the dog in pain, yet he cannot make himself get rid of the only companion who has stayed with him. Candy is more vulnerable and is willing to follow Carlton’s lead. Candy looks to others for leadership, not only Carlson but also George. He has passed the time where he felt of some use, just as his dog has. Carlson, however, continues his leadership role, doing what needs to be done. This serves as a model for George when he decides to use Carlson’s gun (the same one with which Carlson killed Candy’s dog) to kill Lennie.
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