Final Answer
This quote is important as it symbolizes the departure of a significant presence, possibly a train, and the aftermath it leaves behind. The juxtaposition of the disappearing train and the calming wind creates a poignant contrast, hinting at the complex emotions and changes associated with its departure.
Step-by-step explanation
The quote holds significance by encapsulating a moment of transition and change. The image of the train disappearing over the horizon suggests a departure or a journey's end, leaving behind a trail of thick, dirty smoke. This visual metaphor may symbolize the remnants of an impactful event or the consequences of a significant change. The train's disappearance could represent the passing of an era, the conclusion of a journey, or the departure of something or someone substantial in the narrative.
The subsequent description of a calm, reassuring wind blowing through homes introduces a contrasting atmosphere. The wind, often symbolizing renewal or change, carries a sense of reassurance. This duality in the quote creates a rich emotional landscape, where the departure of the train, with its imagery of thick smoke, is juxtaposed against the calming influence of the wind. The importance lies in this nuanced portrayal of transition, suggesting that even after the departure of something significant, there is a potential for renewal and a sense of reassurance.
In essence, this quote is a literary device, a moment frozen in words that captures a broader theme or emotion within the narrative. It invites readers to delve into the symbolic layers, encouraging reflection on the impact of change and the possibilities that emerge in its wake.