A Worn Path by Eudora Welty, Essay Example

Locate the paper’s thesis. Is it obvious or unclear? Does it establish an interpretation of a key theme from the story? Is the thesis as specific as it needs to be?

The paper presents the thesis at the close of the opening paragraph, and it clearly expresses the author’s interpretation of the story.  It emphasizes the heroic quality of Phoenix and the story arc of her tenacity and strength, as it also incorporates the subtle and critical element of her love for her grandson.

Is each paragraph organized around one key point? Do topic sentences clearly indicate the focus of each paragraph?

On one level, the writer keeps to topic sentences as followed through to an extent.  On another, however, there is a repetition in how that character and age of Phoenix is discussed.  In fairness to the writer, the story itself is such that these realities define.  Then, the writer does create paragraphs exploring different aspects to the realities.

Does the author support each main point with direct quotations from the story that are analyzed and explained? Do you have any suggestions for improvement?

The use of quotes is solid and effective, and the author sets them in place as supporting the ideas of the essay.  In terms of improvement, then, only tenses and grammar need attention, because the writer moves from past and present tense, and also quotes  incorrectly through not using apostrophes well.

Where do you disagree with the author’s analysis?

My only disagreement with the author’s analysis goes to the final line.  The author does not restate the thesis, which is strong and accurate, and  instead introduces the idea of God as vital to helping all carry on.  In plain terms, this is a new theme, and presenting it in the last sentence of the essay is strange and illogical.

What aspects of the story are left unexplained?

While the writer generally expresses the interpretation very well, grammar mistakes notwithstanding, there should be more discussion of the grandson.  He is mentioned only briefly, and there is no explanation as to the remark in the last paragraph, stating that he may not be alive.  Essentially, this motivation of Phoenix’s journey is largely unexplained, and the lack is noticeable.

What does the author of this essay do well?

With, again, grammar and tense errors aside, the author presents a confident essay, and one that very nicely follows the story without too much of a reliance on summary.  Best of all is the full characterization of Phoenix, and the writer describes her and her actions in ways expressing strong admiration.