Refer to Explorations in Literature for a complete version of this story. In "This Is What It Means to Say Phoenix, Arizona," the author frequently uses images
of flight: Thomas flying off the roof, fireworks shooting through the air, wasps
attacking Victor, the two characters flying to Phoenix, and the salmon flying above
the water.
They imply that just as humans can't really fly, humans can't really achieve
happiness
They prove that it is bettertito stay where you belong than to try to escape
How do these images help convey an important theme in the story?
• They suggest that living creatures yearn for a life of freedom and power
• They suggest that the idea that you can fly is a dangerous illusion