The passage takes place during winter in December. Winter comes at the end of the year, plants and trees begin to die. Nature itself loses its color and remains barren until spring returns. . Cold winds cover the desert and leave the land free of all life. This represents Phoenix's impending death. As it ages it also continues to become weaker and more fragile, but like nature after winter there is a rebirth in spring the plants begin to sprout. The grandson of Phoenix could be considered the rebirth or the season of spring. As Phoenix reached the city "in the cobblestone city, it was Christmas time." The city was decorated with “red and green electric lights hung and strung everywhere, and all lit during the day.” The bright lights gave the city a happy and cheerful atmosphere. Phoenix had traveled a long distance and encountered many obstacles that slowed her down. In her old age and with her poor eyesight, she was fortunate to complete the journey to the city. Overall, the lights were used to represent the celebration of Phoenix's arrival at its destination Natchez.,