Themes:
* The passage of time: The poem focuses on the rapid movement of trains and how it contrasts with the slow, almost static existence of nature. This highlights the contrast between human progress and the enduring, unchanging qualities of the natural world.
* The fleeting nature of beauty: The poem describes the beauty of the countryside, but it also acknowledges that this beauty is transient and fleeting. The train's passing leaves the landscape behind, suggesting that even the most beautiful things are temporary.
* Loneliness and isolation: The speaker feels a sense of isolation and detachment from the world around them. The train journey becomes a metaphor for the journey through life, with its moments of connection and isolation.
* The power of imagination: The speaker finds solace and beauty in their own imagination, which allows them to escape the mundane reality of the train journey and find meaning in the fleeting moments of the world around them.
Possible Purposes:
* To explore the nature of time and change: The poem invites readers to contemplate the way time moves differently for humans and nature, and how this can impact our perception of beauty and permanence.
* To reflect on the human experience of loneliness and isolation: The speaker's sense of detachment from the world is a common human experience, and the poem explores the ways in which we cope with these feelings.
* To celebrate the power of imagination: The poem suggests that imagination can be a source of comfort and beauty, allowing us to find meaning in even the most mundane aspects of life.
Ultimately, the purpose of "Story by Railway Side" is open to interpretation. It is a poem that encourages the reader to think about the passage of time, the nature of beauty, and the role of imagination in our lives.
It is important to note that the poem itself is highly evocative and uses a lot of imagery, which adds to its complexity and leaves room for individual interpretation.