What convinced Charly that he had reached the Third Level Grand Centr...
The Third Level Grand Central StationIntroduction:
The story "The Third Level" by Jack Finney revolves around the main character, Charly, who discovers a hidden passage leading to the past at the Grand Central Station in New York City. Charly is convinced that he has reached the Third Level Grand Central Station and not the second level due to several distinct factors.
Gas Lights and Brass Spittoons:
One of the reasons that convinces Charly that he has reached the Third Level Grand Central Station is the presence of a different world with gas lights and brass spittoons. As Charly describes, the Third Level is a place where "the gas lights are shrouded in blue mist, the wooden benches are old and uncomfortable, and the brass spittoons have not been removed." In contrast, the Second Level, which is set in 1953, lacks these old-fashioned features. The presence of gas lights and brass spittoons strongly suggests that Charly has indeed traveled back in time to the Third Level.
Beards and Mustaches of 1894:
Another factor that convinces Charly is the sight of men with beards and mustaches, which were more common in the late 19th century. Charly notices that the men on the Third Level have "long, narrow, solemn faces and long, narrow, solemn beards and mustaches." This observation further strengthens his belief that he has entered a different time period, specifically the year 1894. The absence of such facial hair on the men of the Second Level confirms that Charly has not mistakenly arrived there.
Newspaper with a Date June 11, 1894:
The most compelling evidence that Charly has reached the Third Level is the newspaper he finds. Charly discovers a newspaper dated June 11, 1894, which he later confirms by cross-referencing with historical records. The presence of this newspaper, with its specific date, serves as concrete proof that Charly has successfully traveled back in time to the Third Level Grand Central Station.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Charly's belief that he has reached the Third Level Grand Central Station and not the second level is supported by multiple factors. The presence of a different world with gas lights and brass spittoons, the sight of men with beards and mustaches, and the discovery of a newspaper dated June 11, 1894, all contribute to Charly's conviction. These elements collectively confirm that Charly has indeed traveled back in time, experiencing the wonders of the Third Level.