The character reflects on his desire to reclaim his thoughts, indicating a rejection of the harsh realities of his environment. He feels overwhelmed by the modern world, symbolized by its "metal face," which represents a cold and unforgiving society. This realization leads him to yearn for a past that seems more meaningful and significant than his current experiences.

As he contemplates the future, he perceives a bleak landscape where all the fundamental values and elements that once held importance are absent. This sense of loss underscores a deep existential struggle, highlighting his internal conflict with both the present and the uncertainty of what lies ahead.