Galesburg, as described by Charley, represents an ideal, peaceful world of the past. It is portrayed as a calm town with big old houses, huge lawns, and people enjoying simple pleasures like evening walks and lemonade. There is no rush, no fear of war, and no anxiety about the future. This tranquil image stands in stark contrast to the stressful, fast-paced modern life Charley leads. His longing for Galesburg reflects his deep desire to escape to a less complicated and more joyful time, making Galesburg a symbol of a stress-free world.