Train Tracks

The train tracks running through Glaxo that are replaced by a new road at the end of Part I are symbolic of Vardemann’s life being taken off course as a result of Miguelito and Folcada’s actions. Vardemann was on a certain path in life that seemed fixed to him, much like the path of a train on tracks is fixed, but he was derailed from this path like the trains that are derailed in his dreams.

Toy Guns

Toy guns and imaginary guns are symbolic of the naivety and innocence of youth, and the inability of children to understand the real consequences of violence that they treat as play. As adolescents, Vardemann and Miguelito play-acted gun battles from the Hollywood Western movies they saw. Later in life, however, these games seem less innocent and amusing and Vardemann pretending to shoot Miguelito at the...