Harold's Changing Aims

The journey's purpose shifts from enjoying a moonlit walk to surviving unforeseen dangers and finally reaching the rest Harold needs.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

A Leisurely Intention

Choosing an Outing The initial desire Harold decides to go for a walk in moonlight after considering it for some time. The plan is modest and self-directed; at first, there is no stated destination beyond the pleasure of walking. Conditions for the wish He needs a Moon and a path, and draws both into the scene. The story begins with an aim that seems easy to equip, even as its journey will grow beyond that simple plan.

Seeking a View

A New Purpose Emerges Locating himself After the beach and picnic, Harold goes looking for a hill to climb so he can see where he is. The aim has shifted from strolling to understanding his position. The bedroom enters the goal He reasons that from high enough he might see his bedroom window. The wish to get to bed begins to shape the adventure, though his chosen strategy exposes him to a fall.

Rest as the Final Aim

Returning to the Need for Sleep A simpler priority After the sprawling search through buildings and streets, Harold remembers the window's relation to the Moon. The solution does not require another climb or another larger construction. The aim fulfilled He draws a bed, gets in, and pulls up the covers. The walk that began as chosen entertainment ends in the sleep he had gradually recognized he needed.

At the opening, one evening

After the picnic, before Harold slips on the mountain

At the end, when Harold reaches his bed