Why does the cardinal mean hope in the scarlet ibis?

In "The Scarlet Ibis," the cardinal symbolizes hope due to its vibrant red color, which contrasts sharply with the somber themes of loss and mortality in the story. The appearance of the cardinal, particularly when it falls dead, serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the deep connections between the characters. It reflects the hopes and dreams that ultimately lead to both beauty and tragedy, encapsulating the struggle between aspiration and reality. The cardinal's striking presence reinforces the theme of hope intertwined with the inevitability of sorrow.