Clearly the title of this excellent story relates to both
a literal storm and a figurative storm that rages during the course of this story. The
two of course are very closely interlinked, and concern the repressed passions that
Alcee and Calixta have for each other and the way that society does not allow them to
express those passions, leaving them both frustrated as a result. The storm, in which
the normal order of nature is suspeded and chaos takes over, provides an apt metaphor
for the way that their mutual passion takes over their bodies and they are able to love
freely and in abundance, without a thought for their wife and husband. Consider how
their union is described in the following quote:
They did not heed the crashing torrents, and the
roar of the elements made her laugh as she lay in his arms. She was a revelation in that
dim, mysterious chamber; as white as the couch she lay upon. Her firm, elastic flesh
that was knowing for the first time its birthright, was like a creamly lily that the sun
invites to contribute its breath and perfume to the undying life of the
world.
The physical storm of
nature therefore finds its precise parallel in the storm of passion that is unleashed
between Calixta and Alcee, as is emphasised by the various sensual details provided.
What is likewise important to note is the way that this "storm" actually improves the
marriages that Calixta and Alcee have. Having given in to these pent up feelings of love
and passion, both Calixta and Alcee are shown to be more loving to their partners. Just
like a natural storm, their storm of passion has cleared the air and made them both
happier as a result.
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