In this excerpt from Franz Kafka's "The Trial," the protagonist K. is caught in a disturbing scene where a knife is passed back and forth to him. The act symbolizes a coercive expectation that he take his own life, reflecting the weight of judgment hovering over him. K. realizes this grim expectation but instead of complying, he turns his head away, unable to accept the grim fate that is being put upon him.

K.'s hesitation illustrates his struggle with the absurdity of the situation and the overwhelming pressure exerted by the officials. He feels a mixture of despair and a lack of agency, as he recognizes that the burden of this expectation lies not only on the officials but also on himself for being unable to act. This moment underscores themes of responsibility and helplessness that permeate Kafka's work.