The narrative explores the lives of cotton pickers in Mexico, highlighting their struggles and camaraderie as they seek work under harsh conditions. It begins with a group of diverse characters, including a man from the train, who gather at a station, all aiming to find their way to a cotton-picking job. Through their interactions, the story delves into themes of poverty, labor exploitation, and the shared experiences of the working class. The characters' conversations reveal their backgrounds and aspirations, while the setting emphasizes the challenges they face in their pursuit of a better life.