La Linea

The train riders are mostly children. For two days, Miguel, Javi, and Elena endure the smoke and noise of the rattling train. They see kids brushed off the train by branches and they must duck to avoid being electrocuted by low wires. Javi watches for train gangs and other dangers, such as checkpoints manned by la migra, the immigration police. Whenever la migra stops the train, the three jump off and hide in the brush, then reboard. They are hungry and thirsty and worn out. Javi assures them that people in an upcoming pueblito will help them. Elena does not believe Javi, but townspeople run alongside the train, tossing food, clothing, and water to the migrants. They shout blessings and encourage the kids to find their parents. Miguel sees that Javi looks “haunted,” and knows he envisions his own children someday making this trip to find him. Miguel thinks about how Papá abandoned him and made him false promises. Miguel feels nothing for Papá. 

A gang boards the train, so Javi, Miguel and Elena quickly jump off. The gang drags three screaming girls into the bushes.