"Leaving the Atocha Station" is a novel by Ben Lerner that explores the life of a young American poet named Adam Gordon. Set in Madrid, the story delves into themes of identity, art, and the complexities of human relationships as Adam navigates his experiences in a foreign city. The narrative is marked by Adam's introspective thoughts and observations, reflecting on his surroundings and the people he encounters. The title refers to the Atocha Station, a major train station in Madrid, symbolizing both departure and the journey of self-discovery that Adam undergoes throughout the book.