In Cather’s “Paul’s Case,” the train symbolizes the merchandized life of Paul. First, Paul wants to have an unrestrained life from his father; however, his father controls Paul’s life. Not only Paul’s father, but the faculty of the Pittsburgh merchandises Paul because of his “various misdemeanors” (325). For example, Paul’s identity changes according to the decision of his father. Paul’s “various misdemeanors” aggravates Paul’s situation. Throughout the story, Paul steals money to have a better life. Paul decides “night train for New York”, showing Paul’s desperation to escape from his reality. The word “night” possibly represents his hatred toward his previous merchandized life. At this moment, “train for New York” represent the hopeful life