They set off from a location - that is no longer attainable for the traveler - and are heading for a destination - that is not yet accessible for the traveler.
Just like the principle of traveling itself, the traveler is in a state of flux.
Sure, the travel person might peek through the window of their train, and see trees, meadows, reindeer rushing by, and these are very real. But the traveler can not interact with any of these.
They can only interact with the rest of the world again when they have reached their destination, got off their train - and put their feet on solid ground.
And all this great for our "Sonic Itinerancy" concept. Because if you are no longer part of the real world, why not drift off into the artificial world of music and start to surf on sound waves?
Now I must add that the above is only partially true. It is true for the modern form of traveling. Which is indeed based on the sole mission to get to a certain destination (and then to conduct business, diplomacy, or social festivities there...).
Even hiking, cycling, "chillaxing" in nature can be put into this modern umbrella of traveling, if it is conducted on a pre-planned route.
There is a different, more archaic form of travel, of moving around in the world, though.
I was hit by this concept when reading the account by game designer Shigeru Miyamoto, who explained that the idea of "The Legend of Zelda" game series was based on his childhood experiences.
He would just go off into the nature and forests of Japan. Explore, discover, wander aimlessly, or all three things at once.
He would find hidden caves, and lots of other things.
Later I read an analysis of "Kids on Bikes" movies, a film genre I had never heard of before. It ties to similar experiences like those of Miyamoto (but on a bike this time, not just on one's feet). The genre includes well known movies like The Goonies or even E.T.
Times have changed, and please, do not let your own kids wander around in the forest without attention and protection. It's dangerous.
So this door is closed.
But we grown-ups and adults still have that option.
So why not look up a map (even an online one!) Find forests, lakes, places in your vicinity - that you never had visited so far. Or even locations that are even further away.
Go there, hike there, explore, discover, feel like an adventurer.
Who knows what you might find?
Maybe sweet spots in nature, perfect for rest and picnics, that rarely anyone else knows.
"Secret" lakes, unknown buildings, a weird set of trees.
Maybe you even find new friends or at least have a nice chat.
Of course, be cautious if the terrain is too remote, too dangerous, or too dark. This goes without saying!
And, to finish our excurse, and tie it in with the sonic itinerancy project once more:
Make sure to listen to fantastic music on your earphones and speakers during your travels!
Read more about the Sonic Itinerancy project here: https://thehardcoreoverdogs.blogspot.com/2025/08/do-you-listen-to-music-while-being-on.html
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