Kathy wrote (regarding Clark's statement that he didn't like his stubble):
probably brings back memories of how he was forced to look in the cell
I originally took Clark's comments of displeasure ("I don't like it", "it itches") as a reminder to the reader that the beard had not only been a psychological symbol of his humiliation, but it was also just plain uncomfortable. Now, I'm wondering if perhaps you're right. Could he be remembering, albeit subconsciously?