The Far and the Near

The house on the outskirts of the town serves as a powerful symbol in the story, representing the engineer’s idealized perception of the world. Described as tidy, comfortable, and surrounded by nature’s beauty, the house embodies an image of tranquility and constancy. For the engineer, it becomes a symbol of solace and familiarity, representing an unchanging haven amidst the passage of time. However, the visit to the home distorts his perception, as the reality does not align with his idealized vision. Once a symbol of stability, the house becomes a catalyst for his disillusionment and a metaphor for the inevitable changes brought by time.

The train passing by the house daily, with its powerful motion and rhythmic sound, symbolizes The Relentless Passage of Time and the transient nature of life. As the engineer drives the train, he witnesses moments of tragedy and joy, encapsulating the myriad experiences that time brings. The train also reflects the engineer’s connection to his work and the fulfillment he derives from it. However, when he disembarks from the train after years of service, he confronts the disorientation and confusion of the changing world around him.