Phoenix Jackson Symbolism

In addition to the setting, the name of Phoenix Jackson has symbolism. Barnhisel states that "Phoenix Jackson's name is a reference to a mythical bird called 'phoenix'." This bird's habitat is out in the desert and lives for 500-600 years. The bird sets itself on fire, to rise again from its own ashes (Barnhisel). This symbolizes immortality. Some religions actually believe in rising again, just like Christ. According to Rachel Lister, Welty describes Phoenix as a solitary little bird. Lister states that "some [birds] feature prominently in the story; some symbolize the fragility of Phoenix and her grandson and others are more sinister and seem to presage death." In the story, Phoenix sees a bob-white "stuffed" in the hunter's bag, "its beak