"The Poison" is a short story by John Steinbeck that explores themes of jealousy and betrayal. The narrative centers around a man named Harry, who believes he has been poisoned by a snake. As he waits for help, he becomes increasingly paranoid and confronts his friend, Graham, about his suspicions. The story highlights the psychological effects of fear and mistrust. As the tension builds, it becomes clear that the real danger may not be the poison itself, but rather the destructive power of Harry's own mind and the relationships around him.