The protagonist experiences peaceful sleep, often filled with dreams about trains. One specific train captures his attention, where he can vividly recall the scent of coal smoke as the train moves through a passage of time. In these dreams, he finds himself stepping into the world outside the train, which evokes a sense of nostalgia, hinting at memories from his childhood.

Upon waking, he occasionally hears the distant sound of the Spokane International train. This noise blends into his dreams, creating a fluid connection between his subconscious experiences and reality. The imagery of the train serves as a powerful symbol of his past and the passage of time, linking his dreams to a childhood that shaped him.