Describe symbolism in The Sleepwalkers by Hermann Broch

In Part I, the story of Joachim's mistreatment of the pony just before he enters military school is symbolic of Joachim's lifelong carelessness towards the people in his life. He concentrates on the minute details of his personal uniform and becomes upset about any small impropriety, real or imagined, but the substance of his relationships are covered with neglect and disregard.