26 pages • 52 minutes read
Thomas WolfeThe Far and the Near
Fiction | Short Story | Adult | Published in 1935A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Symbols & Motifs
The House
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
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.
Waving
The act of waving by the women on the porch symbolizes a simple gesture of connection and friendship. It represents a moment of human interaction amidst the vastness and impersonality of the world. It serves as a symbol of hope, warmth, and the possibility of forging meaningful bonds. Their waving gesture becomes a beautiful and enduring image in the engineer’s mind, representing something beyond change and ruin. It symbolizes a connection, a sense of familiarity and affection, and a steadfastness that remains unchanged amidst the unpredictability of life.
