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. how do these images convey an important theme in the story? they prove that it is better to stay where you belong than to try to escape. they intimate that living things yearn for a life of freedom and power. they suggest that the idea that you can fly is a dangerous illusion. they imply that just as humans can't really fly, humans can't really achieve happiness.