ed her hand up, but nothing reached down and gave her a pull (89). The dream could have been God looking down at her, but she is not ready to enter heaven, which is why nothing reached down to get her. Phoenix still has many years to live and must complete her journey. Just before the city, Phoenix stumbles upon a white hunter, accompanied by two growling dogs. After a brief conversation with the man, she quickly noticed a nickel that fell out of the mans pocket: Then she slowly straightened up, she stood erect, and the nickel was in her apron pocket (90). Phoenix is not the type of lady to steal things, but she wants to purchase a gift for her nephew for Christmas. She feels somewhat guilty and speaks to herself: God watching me the whole time. I come to stealing (90). Before the hunters departure, he lied and told Phoenix that he would give her a dime if he had any money. Phoenix finally reaches Natchez, which is decorated with luminous red and green lights. The city is full of paved roads, which is the opposite of the snowy, rough landscape of the pinewoods. The citys atmosphere is bright and merry, and symbolizes the celebration of Phoenixs journey. Phoenix reaches the hospital and quickly forgets why she had come. Phoenix remembers when the nurse asks how her nephew is doing. This is another example of realism of old age affecting Phoenix Jacksons memory. The nurse and the doctor agree to give the medicine to Phoenix at no charge. In addition, the nurse gives Phoenix a nickel for Christmas spirit. Phoenix is going to use her ten cents to buy her nephew a paper windmill. The windmill represents the circle of life, and Phoenix will live on for many more years. A Worn Path ends with her slow step down the hospital stairs.A Worn Path emphasizes natural symbolism, and Phoenix Jackson seems to be part of the nature that surrounds her. Phoenix Jackson is full of life, and respects all of the wildlife in the forest. Altho...
