... feet, time I get this far."" This is clearly an indication of a reference to bound slaves that old Phoenix can remember from her younger years. She also notes, "Something always take a hold of me on this hill "pleads I should stay."" This statement seems to be referring to the blacks struggle to attain ... the years of the civil war and the release of the slaves. Later as Phoenix continues, she sits to rest. While sitting, she witnesses a little boy who brings her a slice of marble cake. Clearly this illusion is brought on by very old age, but it also appears to be a reference by ... w...

• Word Count: 1034
• Approx Pages: 4
• Grade Level: High School

... . As for the question that some may have about whether or not the grandson lives, the answer can be found in Welty's frequent references to death and supernatural spirits. Phoenix notes that "down in the hollow was the mourning dove it was not too late for him-(106). Is she referring to the dove and the time of day, or is ... the true meaning applied inwardly? Is Phoenix telling herself that it is not too late to grieve for her dead grandson? Phoenix's vision, that of a little boy who brings her "a little plate with a slice of marble cake on it,"" may very well be the image of her grands...

• Word Count: 727
• Approx Pages: 3
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School