"A Worn Path" Eudora Welty

The minor characters in "A Worn Path" play an important role in characterizing Phoenix Jackson. Her first encounter is with a young, white hunter. He helps her up and advises her to head home. Upon her refusal, he makes a racist comment about how old colored people would never miss the chance to see Santa Claus and lets her go. Next, she asks a lady on the street to lace and tie her shoes for her. The lady seems a little annoyed by her, but obeys her request. Finally, she gets to the doctor's office and the attendent asks her why she is there and for her information. Phoenix doesn't reply, and the attendent gets angry, asking, "Are you deaf?" Then a nurse comes out and recognizes Phoenix. She calmly tells the attendent that she is there to pick up medication for her sick grandson. But when the nurse asks about her grandson and she doesn't reply, the nurse tells her that she must not waste their time. Phoenix claims that her memory had escaped her, but reassures that she won't forget again when the nurse seems nervous. Still, the nurse gives Phoenix the medication. I think that all of the characters are somewhat irked by her, but let her go on with her life as long as she is capable of doing so, and they are willing to help her out if she needs it.