The Storm

No Moral, No Importance?

It seems that every story would have a moral, whether it is easily explained outright or if it requires a deeper thought to truly comprehend, however that is not the case with the short story, “The Storm.” The author, Kate Chopin, wrote this story without including an ending that truly explains the resolution or even a sense to all of which has occurred. Without that true satisfying ending, does that make this story lack any meaning, solely because it has no true moral or lesson? The answer, to a reader that can relate to her situation, such as myself, is absolutely not.

Calixta, the wife of Bobinot (who is currently at the market), is at home and is trapped until the storm passes. Her former lover, Alcee, stops by and helps her as she prepares for the storm. The two later go on to endure sexual endeavors, which leads to memories of the love the two had once had. The simple plot may seem to never include a true lesson, but rather explain the similarities between both the storm and her relationship with Alcee. The distressing storm strikes every so often, just as her former love for Alcee is ever so present from time to time. The storm is a reflection of the troubles that Calixta is enduring throughout her marriage. It is evident that she still will always have feelings for Alcee, regardless of the marriage she has with another man. Her love for Alcee is unforgettable and strikes ever so often just as the storm does, rising tension in her life.

I elaborate on all of this because I can relate to her troubles, as I too have once had a former lover that is now completely separated from me that I also still feel some significant connection with. It is very easy for a reader of no-relatable life experiences to simply state the story has no moral, and for that, it has no meaning. However, with me being able to understand Calixta’s troubles, I can sit here and explain what she is dealing