In John Updike's "Rabbit, Run," the protagonist feels an increasing sense of entanglement as he drives away. The mention of Baltimore symbolically represents a shift in his life, suggesting that he is being pulled toward a complex and chaotic reality. This journey reflects his internal struggles and the confusion he faces as he seeks to escape his current circumstances.

As he distances himself from Philadelphia, the character recognizes that each mile traveled deepens his connection to an overwhelming and disordered system. This journey becomes a metaphor for his search for identity and belonging, highlighting the tension between freedom and confinement that underpins his quest. The feeling of being drawn toward this ambiguous force emphasizes the struggles faced in finding clarity amidst chaos.