Question

What had Sam written in his letter to Charley?

Hint:

Sam’s letter highlights the story’s theme—human beings long for an escape into a simpler past to find peace and happiness.

Answer 1

Step 1: Context of the letter.
In “The Third Level” by Jack Finney, Charley was obsessed with finding the mysterious third level of Grand Central Station. To prove its existence, he searched for evidence and finally found a letter written by his friend Sam. This letter confirmed that the third level was not just his imagination. Step 2: The content of the letter.
Sam’s letter was dated July 18, 1894, and it was written on old-style stationery. In the letter, Sam revealed that he had successfully reached the third level and from there had gone to Galesburg, Illinois, in 1894. He described the place as peaceful, with big houses, lawns, trees, and friendly people. He explained that he had settled there to escape the anxieties and insecurities of the modern world. Step 3: Importance of the letter.
The letter served as strong proof for Charley that the third level was real. It also reflected human desire for an escape into a simpler, tension-free life. The fact that Sam had vanished and his letter came from the past added to the mystery of the story. Conclusion:
Sam had written that he had found the third level and had moved permanently to Galesburg in 1894, living a happy and peaceful life there. This confirmed Charley’s belief in the existence of the third level.