Death of a Train

Union Station is depicted as a somber place, possibly symbolizing an endpoint or a place of departure. The term "tombstone high" suggests a sense of finality or a memorial.

The speaker expresses a lack of emotion, indicating that tears have run dry, possibly implying a sense of resignation or acceptance of a difficult situation.

Refers to the anonymity of people, reduced to mere headlines. This may allude to a sense of detachment or alienation from the broader societal issues.

Expresses a collective decision to no longer engage in a particular journey or experience, possibly due to negative associations or experiences.

The speaker shows a lack of resistance or opposition, perhaps implying a sense of surrender or acceptance of circumstances.

Suggests an alternative route or direction ('East') that could have been taken. It may reflect a choice made to avoid certain difficulties.

References Newfoundland as the land of the speaker's father, potentially invoking nostalgia or a connection to heritage.

Reiterates the decision not to partake in a specific journey, reinforcing a sense of detachment or departure.

Describes the visual impact of cold steel, possibly indicating a sense of industrialization or modernization. 'Battle Creek' could be a metaphor for struggles.

Conveys a feeling of fatigue or weariness, with rain and sea possibly symbolizing life's challenges.

Mentions Massey-Ferguson, a brand associated with farming equipment, invoking memories possibly tied to rural life or agricultural experiences.

Repeats the decision to refrain from taking a particular train, emphasizing the finality of the choice.

The speaker addresses a captain, seeking guidance or direction, possibly reflecting a desire for clarity in the face of uncertainty.

Expresses a need for advice or assistance, underlining a sense of confusion or lack of direction.

Reveals the speaker's long tenure on the 'Soo line,' possibly symbolizing a substantial period of life or experience.

Reiterates the collective decision not to engage with a particular train service, emphasizing a sense of closure.

Depicts smoke rising, possibly symbolizing the aftermath of some event or transformation. Dreams of beaver dams may carry personal or cultural significance.

References dreams, potentially indicating aspirations or goals, and the beaver dam, symbolizing industriousness or the building of a stable foundation.

Indicates a decline in the ability to hear, using the character Sam as an example, possibly suggesting a loss of connection or understanding.

Asks for an explanation or justification for the decision not to ride the train anymore, possibly addressing societal or personal issues.

Addreses Pierre Trudeau, expressing a longing for leadership or guidance in challenging times, possibly invoking a sense of political or social unrest.

Describes Trudeau as a friend, emphasizing a personal connection and reliance on leadership during difficult periods.

Highlights the prevalence of confusion during challenging times, possibly alluding to societal or political upheaval.

Repeats the decision not to engage with a particular train, reiterating a sense of detachment or withdrawal.

Repeats the inability to ride the train, emphasizing the permanence of the decision.