What does Far off in the marsh a rail was scolding mean from The Scarlet Ibis?

In "The Scarlet Ibis," the phrase "Far off in the marsh a rail was scolding" evokes a sense of isolation and the natural world’s rawness. The sound of the rail, a type of bird known for its harsh calls, symbolizes the underlying tension and emotional turmoil present in the story. It sets a somber tone, reflecting the struggles of the characters, particularly the narrator and his brother Doodle. This imagery highlights the theme of conflict between the beauty of nature and the pain of personal relationships.