"'Yes. Swallowed lye. When was it?-January-two, three years ago-?" (pg. 229)
What might have led the student to ask that question?
Phoenix obviously believes that her son is still alive. However, the encounter with the nurse may lead the reader to believe otherwise. For a moment, Phoenix seems to be having an epiphany, but then she returns to her former way of thinking. The event doesn't conclude whether the grandson is dead or alive.
How can the author's remark be seen as an answer?
Welty does not give a definite answer either way; instead, she pushed the question off to the side. I think this means that it doesn't matter whether the son was dead or not. That isn't the important part of the story. What is important is Phoenix's love for her grandson and her dedication to him.
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