Eudora Welty's "A Worn Path

Paper Summary:

This paper begins with a discussion of the social and historical context of the tale and is followed by the introduction of the character of Phoenix Jackson. The author discusses her age, health and pride. The author uses different examples from the story to detail her character, including walks through the woods, some inner dialogue, as well as her interaction with plants and animals. The author also shows how, on the one hand she is unafraid to ask for help, but her pride and independence, prevent her from reaching out until it is absolutely necessary.

From the Paper:

"Old Phoenix is not afraid to ask for help. When she reaches town she asks a woman to help her tie her shoelaces, even though the "nice lady" carries a handful of packages. Just as she justified taking the nickel from the hunter, Old Phoenix feels no shame in receiving aid from others. Welty reminds us of Phoenix's age and routine when she climbs the steps to the nurse's office "until her feet knew to stop." Her walk is second nature; she completes it as if blindfolded."

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