How does Welty's decision to end the story with Phoenix picking
up the medicine for her grandson contribute to the story's
impact?
It hints that the nurse is amazed that Phoenix's
o grandson is still alive with only soothing medicine to
help him, ending the story on a bewildered note.
It indicates that Phoenix is becoming forgetful after
o reaching her destination and not remembering why
she is there, ending the story on a poignant note.
It suggests that the nurse has a cold and clinical
o attitude toward Phoenix when she asks if the boy has
died, ending the story on a cynical note.
It shows the depth of care and love Phoenix has for
her grandson to walk so far to get medication to help
ease the boy's injury, ending the story on a
compassionate note.