Flow of Traffic

The symbolism illustrated through Shiftlet becomes evident upon his entrance in the story. According to John R. May, “the description of Tom T. Shiftlet [. . .] alludes superficially to Jesus” (67). May’s point becomes clear when Shiftlet enters the Craters’ yard; before saying anything to Mrs. Crater, he swings “both his whole and his short arm up slowly so that they [indicate] an expanse of sky and his figure [forms] a crooked cross” (O’Connor 598). Although he might not realize what he is doing, Shiftlet makes a visual reference to Christ just by extending his arms. His modified representation of Christ’s crucifixion indicates that he does not resemble Christ directly. His partial left arm signifies that he lacks at least part of his spirituality. May posits that “Even the most specific allusion to salvation [. . .] leaves us with two serious doubts about his authenticity; it is after all a ‘crooked’ cross and his arrival at ‘sunset’ is more appropriate to ...