They evoke admiration and gaping mouths of little boys. In big and already mature men they awake memories and unfulfilled dreams.
We all know them rushing, embarrassed and proudly whistling. They chug worried over their work, overcoming the hills and valleys. In the clouds of steam and smoke they carry their burdens. By their beauty they can make stop and hold luxury cars and their owners silently entranced.
I saw Beautiful Helen for the first time when she was 70 years old. She was unusual, intriguing and truly beautiful. Great, proud and supercilious. She is so dear and near. In fact, I knew her from my childhood.
I succumbed to the thrilling magic of the great bulk glistening with black and oil. I decided to get to know her and other locomotives where they rest, where after a tiring day and the long route they are repaired, fed and prepared for the next working day. And at night they mysteriously sleep puffing.
That’s what the story is about.
Mirosław Mizera