A Worn Path Analysis
1. What does the title suggest?
2. What kind of pattern does the structure of the story have?
3. Name an allusion for her first and last name and why they
are fitting for this character.
4. What does her journey show about Phoenix? Explain
how Welty uses indirect characterization. Find details that
indicate what kind of woman she is.
5. Trace the motif of birds in the story. What do the birds
symbolize?
6. Why does Phoenix make her journey? Now extend that to
a statement about people in general, or the subject of the
story. What is the theme of this story?
7. Do you think the grandson is still alive? Explain.