I would say that the correct answer is B, concerned. A doesn't apply, he isn't really preoccupied with something over something else, and C doesnt completely make sense with the passage. And Tom isn't horrified, he doesn't seem to be reacting too much at all, other than just seeming concerned.
Answer:
As the very theme of the story is the absurdity of trying to escape death, the clock serves as a reminder that death is inevitable. It symbolizes the passage of time.
It seems that the boy uses everyday language in order to describe what he sees and smells. By resorting to this, the reader gets the perspective of a young boy from a poor social class because the imaginary used is based on elements that he might see on daily bases, smells like the cat or somthing roaten are really common in the streets.
