A Worn Path

Literary Analysis

Arising out of the ashes the phoenix came back to life again. In Greek mythology the phoenix is the symbol for idealism and hope. It falls only to arise and live again. The main character of Eudora Welty’s short story, “A Worn Path”, is much like this phoenix. She must overcome much adversity on her life path. Eudora Welty in “A Worn Path” uses the idea of the phoenix to characterize and symbolize the indomitable spirit of the main character, Phoenix Jackson, who though old, weak, and forgetful can conquer obstacles put in her way as she heads toward her goal.

Spirit - Phoenix Jackson, a determined woman, never gave up even in the hardest times. Jackson knew she had to complete the journey for her ill grandson. During her journey she even talked smart to a white hunter in the area. The hunter asked her what she was doing in the ditch. Phoenix answered, “Lying on my back like a June bug waiting to be turned over, mister, she said, reaching up her hand.” (Welty, 282) The hunter