What is John’s initial intention with Carol? Why does he change his mind in the beginning of the play? Why does Carol ask what his dark secret is?
Initially, John doesn't plan on taking any responsibility for Carol's poor performance on her essay, but he reconsiders because she is so upset about her grade.
John mentions that the committee may not sign his tenure..... that something might happen to prevent it, they might find out his "dark secret". Carol then asks what it is, not because she cares about John, but because she is fishing, and he notes that he doesn't have one..... he is merely referring to his tenuous position.
Oleanna
