The Displaced Person Language and Communication Quotes

This is one of the most ambiguous moments in the story. The figure Mrs. Shortley sees in her vision might be telling her to prophecy or telling her that it is a prophecy. What do you think? What are some other ways to read this moment?

Through Mrs. McIntyre's memory of Astor's conversation with the peacock we learn that there used to be twenty of the birds. This also demonstrates the creative ways that Astor uses to communicate his displeasure to Mrs. McIntyre, and the creative ways that O'Connor uses to provide information to the reader.