Here are some key elements of the setting:
* The stark beauty of the snowy landscape: The story emphasizes the quiet, cold, and isolated nature of the setting. This feeling of vastness and isolation is a major theme throughout the story.
* The small town: The town itself is described as being small and isolated, with limited amenities and a sense of community based on shared experiences.
* The roads and the journey: The story takes place largely on the road, emphasizing the feeling of being on the edge of civilization and the dangers of traveling in a remote area during winter.
* The "powder" itself: The story's title refers to the freshly fallen snow, which serves as a symbol of the isolation, beauty, and potential danger of the setting.
Overall, the setting of "Powder" is integral to the story's themes of isolation, loss, and the struggle for connection. The harsh beauty of the landscape reflects the harsh realities of life in a remote area, while the isolation and vastness serve as a metaphor for the protagonist's own inner struggle.