Zitkala-Sa's account indeed suggests that the cold weather outside corresponded with the hostile atmosphere she experienced on her first day at the Carlisle Indian School. The freezing temperature and barren landscape mirrored the unfamiliar and rigid environment of the school. The severity of the winter conditions is paralleled by the stern regulations, alien language, and unfamiliar customs within the school, all of which greatly disturbed Zitkala-Sa and made her feel out of place and unwanted. Zitkala-Sa repeatedly mentions the chilling coldness in relation to the alienating experiences she undergoes. The "bitter-cold" day, the "snow-covered ground," and the "bare trees" outside are stark symbols of the cultural desolation and loss of freedom she feels within the school.