The speaker in “Travel” is torn between the life she has and a powerful urge to leave it. Even though the railroad tracks are far away and the day is busy with voices, she cannot stop hearing train whistles. At night, when everything is still and meant for sleep, she imagines glowing cinders and the sound of engines. These trains are not just literal; they represent possibility, movement, and escape. She cares about her friends and knows she may never find better ones, yet she admits she would take any train, no matter where it was going. The mood is wistful and restless—warm and affectionate about present life, but haunted by the call of elsewhere. The speaker’s longing feels both romantic and a little sad, because it suggests she may never feel fully settled.
Travel — Summary
The railroad track is miles away, And the day is loud with voices speaking, Yet there isn't a train goes by all day But I hear its whistle shrieking. All night there isn't a train goes by, Though the night is still for sleep and dreaming But I see its cinders red on the sky, And hear its engine steaming. My heart is warm with the friends I make, And better friends I'll not be knowing, Yet there isn't a train I wouldn't take, No matter where it's going.