Nouns
The main character’s name is a reference to a mythological bird
The quotes,
“Moving slowly and from side to side, she went into the big building (6)”, and
“moving a little from side to side in her steps, with the balanced heaviness and lightness of a pendulum in a grand-father clock (1)”,
represent this concept of a persisting force displayed by Phoenix.
What is time?
Thorn bushes, bearing sun, rolled log over a river, and barbed wire
What are red flags?
This item was mentioned at the end of the story signifying the freedom of thought.
What is a paper windmill?
The quote,
“Then her slow step began on the stairs, going down (8)”
represents Phoenix ongoing behavior.
What is descent into madness?
Black dog, gun, dead trees, and buzzard.
What are death flags?
These are the things that Phoenix collected representing greed and the taking of kindness.
What are nickels?
The quote,
“Dozens of little black children whirled around her. There ahead was Natchez shining. Bells were ringing. She walked on (6).”
symbolizes this concept.
What is death (of children)?
The receiving of money and kindness for a paper mill.
What is the price of ignorance?