"The Storm"

The chain of events in “The Storm,” written by Kate Chopin, was seemingly leading to an act of adultery between Calixta and Alcee. Though, I understand that passion can take over at times, I do not think the storm was any excuse for two people, married, but not to each other, to commit such an act. “The rain beat upon the low, shingled roof with a force and clatter that threatened to break an entrance and deluge them there.” (Chopin, p.256) “The door stood open, and the room with its white, monumental bed, its closed shutters, looked dim and mysterious.” (Chopin, p. 256) It’s as if these two are almost looking for excuses to hook up. They actually go through with everything while the storm is booming outside.

“The rain was over; and the sun was turning the glistening green world into a palace of gems. Calixta, on the gallery, watched Alcee ride away.” (Chopin, p. 258) So, after the storm is over, so is the passion and Alcee just leaves, as if nothing happened. Calixta’s husband and child come home and she acts as if nothing is wrong; as does Alcee with his wife and kids. These two human beings just betrayed the ones they love to the worst extent in my eyes all because they used a storm as an excuse. I don’t believe that’s right at all; no matter how you look at it. “So the storm passed and everyone was happy.” (Chopin, p. 259) I can’t see how Calixta and Alcee could truly be happy with that burden of guilt eating away at them day after day.