" Likewise putting some light on the Christian themes in the work, Sara Treeman gave reference to the story's theme of basically self-sacrifice, making the point that the worn path "is worn for the reason that this is the symbolic journey created by everyone who are capable of self-sacrifice, of whom Christ is the archetype." (Bartel) The presence of secular mythology in the text has also been the subject of discussion by such critics as Dan Donlan, who perceived the prominence of the Egyptian myth of the Phoenix in the structure and symbolism of the story
The insinuation is that Phoenix has seen a lot of racial violence throughout her lifetime. Lastly, the attendant in the clinic treats Phoenix very rudely, calling her "Grandma," arranging her to speak up, sprinkling her with questions, and challenging to recognize if she is tone-deaf (Piwinski)
Lie is presented both by the hunter and Phoenix Jackson. The hunter lied to Phoenix in regards not having any kind of money, and Phoenix lied, in a sense, by taking the coin that had dropped out of the hunter's pocket (Welty 55)
"Granny, move on along home!" he says. Later, chuckling, "I know you old colored people! You wouldn't even think about missing going to town just to see Santa Claus!" (Wiedemann) The hunter likewise scoffs her with his gun, indicating it straight at her