In G minor, the bass's open fifths repeat, depicting the movement of a steam locomotive. After a four-measure introduction, the A section begins at measure 5.

The theme ascends and descends with the same rhythm, continuing on the tonic chord before moving to the dominant at measure 11. From measure 13, the music gains momentum as if accelerating, and the sound becomes stronger. It reaches the dominant at measure 19 and concludes at measure 20.

The B section begins at measure 21, modulating to B-flat major. It imitates the thematic motif. The mood becomes cheerful, played forte the first time and fortissimo the second time. From measure 21 to 24, the tonic chord of B-flat major dominates. From measure 25 to 26, it moves to the subdominant. From measure 29 to 32, the motif of the B section is repeated. From measure 33 to 35, it modulates to D minor, imitating the motif. From measure 36, it returns to G minor.

From measure 37 to 52, the A section is recapitulated. From measure 53, a coda begins, repeating the bass's open fifths. The theme is repeated twice, gradually fading to pianissimo. The tonic chord is sustained, descending stepwise from D5, concluding as the train recedes into the distance.