In Cormac McCarthy's "No Country for Old Men," the speaker reflects on a troubling encounter with a man who claims to lack a soul. This statement raises profound questions about communication and the nature of humanity. The speaker is left in a state of uncertainty, unable to find the right words to address someone who views existence in such a stark, desolate manner.

The dilemma of whether to engage with a person who feels emotionally and spiritually void creates a sense of futility. The speaker questions the purpose of dialogue in this context, suggesting that when confronted with a stark acknowledgment of one's emptiness, silence may be the most appropriate response. This contemplation highlights the complexities of human connection and the challenges posed by extreme alienation.