Perseverance and Resilience in Eudora Welty's "A Worn Path

Eudora Welty's short story "A Worn Path" portrays Phoenix, an elderly African American woman who faces racial discrimination. Despite her frail appearance - blue eyes and weathered skin from years of labor - Phoenix is resolute in obtaining medicine for her sick grandson. Throughout her journey, she encounters obstacles but persists with unwavering determination, willing to sacrifice herself for her grandson's well-being. Phoenix sets out at dawn and doesn't reach town until midday.

Upon arriving at the clinic, Phoenix is faced with another challenge that further delays her.

The clinic has two stories, with the first floor designated for whites and the upper level for blacks. Climbing the long staircase, she reaches the doctor’s office feeling dumbfounded and exhausted from her journey. Unable to recall her reason for coming, a friendly nurse who knew Phoenix helps her by inquiring about her grandson and providing the promised pain medication. With renewed strength, Phoenix embarks on the arduous journey back home.

In this story, conflicts abound.

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One significant aspect of the narrative is the internal conflict Phoenix faces. As an elderly woman, she embarks on a long journey at the behest of another. Upon reaching the doctor's office, she realizes she has forgotten her reason for making the arduous trip, highlighting her struggle with aging and its challenges. The tale raises uncertainties about the fate of her grandson, leaving readers to ponder whether she is imagining his survival despite his tragic death from consuming lye. Living secluded in the woods, far from society, Phoenix's isolation mirrors that of the narrator in "The Yellow Wallpaper", whose descent into madness leads her to believe the woman trapped in the wallpaper is real.

Both stories, despite their differences, lead the audience to believe that the character is becoming delusional. Eudora reasons that it does not matter if the person is alive or not; what matters is the action itself. Despite warnings from others and signs from nature telling her to turn back, she presses on. Many doubt her because of her age, but she ignores them and continues forward, focusing on the act and the motive behind it.

American identity is mainly defined by how people behave, and in the 1941 Mississippi setting of this story, segregation is evident. The symbolism of racial separation reflects the discrimination of the time, but there is irony in how it is perceived today. Despite the segregation of the era, Phoenix, an African American woman, carries on with dignity and seems to earn respect from those around her.

Contrary to the belief that Southern stories depict a brutal and violent time period, this story offers a different perspective. Eudora Welty's portrayal of Phoenix rising again like a mythical bird highlights her resilience and determination in overcoming challenges (YouTube). Her steadfast commitment to her grandson embodies American values while also depicting the harsh realities of life in the South. Phoenix is an inspiration for her unwavering resolve and strength, demonstrating the importance of human perseverance. Narratives such as this motivate us to create a positive influence not just in our own lives but also in the lives of others.

This story is exceptional, offering inspiration and portraying extraordinary strength and love. Life presents challenges that may tempt us to give up or fill us with negativity, causing us to doubt ourselves. Phoenix, an elderly woman struggling with her well-being, perseveres along a difficult path to reach her destination despite facing obstacles. The quote "Something always take a hold of me on this hill- pleads I should stay" (Welty) reflects the adversity she faces, including her advanced age. Although she knows the journey is beyond her capabilities, she continues on without giving up.

Phoenix, in her fatigue, likens her journey to being weighed down by chains on her feet, underscoring the lengthy and exhausting path she frequently traverses. Despite the difficulties she encounters, she demonstrates bravery and resolve, even when confronting alligators in the swamp. In telling them to "sleep on" and "blow your bubbles," she exhibits a fearless approach towards life's challenges, serving as a model of determination that we should emulate.

The reason I selected this story is because of its powerful message about persevering in times of adversity. It serves as a reminder to keep moving forward. I also relate to the character Phoenix, who reminds me of my grandmother due to their shared qualities of stubbornness and determination despite facing challenges. This story has a lasting impact and prompts reflection on one's own life.

Work Cited

1. Welty, Eudora. “A Worn Path.” American Literature. Vol. 2. Ed. Williams E. Cain. New York: Pearson Education Inc. 2004. 763- 768 Print.
2. Welty, Eudora. "Eudora Welt'ys "A Worn Path"." . YouTube, 1998. Web. 15 Mar 2012.