Meaning: Edward Hopper, an influential American realist painter and printmaker, is known for his iconic depictions of urban and rural scenes. The quote you've provided offers a glimpse into Hopper's fascination with the experience of approaching a big city by train. In this quote, Hopper reflects on the indescribable sensations that arise when encountering a bustling metropolis from the vantage point of a train, suggesting that these sensations are deeply human and may transcend mere aesthetic appreciation.

Hopper's artistic career unfolded during a period of significant urbanization and industrialization in the United States, and his work often grappled with the complexities of modern urban life. His paintings frequently feature solitary figures, empty city streets, and stark architectural forms, all of which contribute to a sense of isolation and introspection. In many ways, Hopper's artistic vision was shaped by his observations of the human experience within the context of urban environments, making his quote about approaching a big city in a train particularly poignant.

The act of approaching a big city in a train holds a specific allure for many individuals, and Hopper's remark hints at the profound and multifaceted nature of this experience. From a practical standpoint, the act of arriving in a big city by train often involves a gradual transition from rural or suburban landscapes to densely populated urban centers. This transition can be visually striking, as the train traverses varying topographies and eventually arrives at the outskirts of the city, offering passengers a panoramic view of the metropolis that lies ahead. The juxtaposition of natural and built environments, coupled with the anticipation of entering a vibrant urban hub, can evoke a range of emotions and sensations for travelers, as Hopper suggests in his quote.

Furthermore, the experience of approaching a big city in a train is imbued with layers of cultural, social, and historical significance. For many people, the city represents a symbol of opportunity, diversity, and dynamism. As the train nears its destination, passengers may find themselves contemplating the myriad possibilities that await them in the urban landscape. Whether it's the promise of new beginnings, the excitement of exploring unfamiliar streets, or the prospect of engaging with the rich tapestry of urban life, the act of arriving in a big city by train can evoke a sense of anticipation and wonder that transcends mere visual aesthetics.

Hopper's emphasis on the "entirely human" nature of the sensations associated with approaching a big city in a train underscores the deeply personal and emotive aspects of this experience. While aesthetic appreciation certainly plays a role in the encounter with a city's skyline, Hopper suggests that the emotions stirred by this experience are rooted in something more fundamental and intrinsic to the human experience. The sight of a sprawling cityscape unfolding before the eyes of a traveler can evoke feelings of awe, curiosity, and introspection, highlighting the profound impact of urban environments on the human psyche.

Ultimately, Hopper's quote offers a poignant reflection on the complex interplay between human emotions and the experience of encountering a big city from the perspective of a train. It invites us to consider the deeply personal and human dimensions of this experience, transcending mere visual aesthetics and inviting contemplation of the myriad sensations and emotions that arise when approaching a bustling urban center. In doing so, Hopper captures the profound allure and significance of the urban landscape as viewed through the lens of a train journey.