The diction of Steinbeck here in apparently describing the dustbowl conditions of the Dirty Thirties is speaking of "tenant men" or presumably men who were tenant farmers perhaps who were allowed to live on the land in return for working it and that they "scuffed" their way home indicates that the dust was so thick they had to scuff but also perhaps that since they could barely make a living under the poor agricultural conditions they did not walk confidently but scuffed.
It’s the second one!!im not sure tho
He was frustrated for obvious reasons. But was described as 'perplexed and still' because he expected a answer from the inmates that were inside the house, but instead of answering his repetitive calls, they chose to give no response leaving the traveler to experience his 'stillness'.
I moved to the United States when I was young, so it was easy to learn English. My parents were already here, and they knew English already.
