The Elements of Fiction #3

"The Storm"

Symbolism

"The Storm" examines the sexual desires of a young married woman. While she is home alone, she allows an old lover to find shelter from a raging storm in her house. The storm is likened to the adulterous passion that occurs. This picture is showing the implied calm. The approaching waves show a tumultuous period approaching, when sexual desires are increased. The storm symbolizes the main character, Calixta's, sexual desire. She is caught up in "the storm" of her ex lover's arms. Chopin writes in a tone that is approving of her actions. If not approving, the tone is certainly portraying the situation as a plea of insanity; something uncontrollable and unavoidable like a ravenous storm.