Why does Mr. Mead compare where he walks to a graveyard?

He sees ghosts in the air during his walk.

The path he has chosen leads him past a graveyard.

It frightens him walk to walk past the houses at night.

There is barely any sign of life coming from the houses.

Based on the given information, the most likely reason why Mr. Mead compares where he walks to a graveyard is: There is barely any sign of life coming from the houses.