The story revolves around Iona and his horse. It begins with them and ends with them as they are sole companions in solitude and suffering.

The plot offers a social commentary on the nature of human beings in the modern society where they disinterested in the affairs of others and their frustration in their loneliness causes them to vent it on animals, such as a horse. The horse only fulfills its duty regardless of its master's mood and offers a silent ear to his sufferings because he has been rejected by society. Both master and horse Appear to be parts of a whole as each is portrayed as neglectful and melancholic. His horse is his only companion by the end of the story.