Is there anything other than travel in life?
The article reflects on the experience of reading a novel during a train journey that evokes memories of youth and travel.
The article describes a reflective journey taken by the author on a train to their hometown, during which they read a novel titled 'Night Train' by Moon Ji-hyuk. This reading choice was influenced by a recent viewing of a movie that evoked fond memories of their twenties. The novel, set in 1999, serves as a nostalgic journey that resonates with readers who have had similar youthful experiences or those looking to evoke the emotional essence of the 1990s through travel.
As the protagonist embarks on a three-week journey through iconic European cities such as London, Brussels, Prague, Salzburg, Vienna, Venice, and Paris, the story evokes a sense of adventure and reminiscence for readers who have traveled during their youth. The narrative begins with a package from the protagonist’s father containing nostalgic items, including a silver ring linked to a past relationship, setting the stage for a reflective exploration of lost connections and the passage of time.
The author emphasizes the philosophical notion that "only travel is important, only travel is valuable, only travel exists,” suggesting that life itself is a continuous journey filled with experiences akin to travel. This insight strikes a chord with the author's own life narrative, reinforcing the idea that everything in life can be seen through the lens of a journey, underscoring the importance of travel in understanding personal and emotional growth.