Kate Chopin has always been known for her exploration into matters of
             human identity and sexuality. Two stories that focus on these themes are
             "The Storm" and "Desiree's Baby." Through metaphor, setting, imagery, and
             foreshadowing, Chopin explores and represents issues of human sexuality
             that have two very different outcomes.
             In "The Storm," Chopin uses the setting of the storm as a metaphor of
             the storm that Calixta will experience when Alcee appears on her doorstep.
             We are told that "sombre clouds were rolling with sinister intention from
             the west" (The Storm Chopin 648-9). This image indicates that something
             unexpected is about to occur. In addition, just as their sexual escapade
             is over, we read that the "growl of the thunder was distant and passing
             way" (651). In short, the storm is very significant to the development of
             In addition, Chopin employs imagery to heighten our interest in the
             characters. Christopher Baker notes that Alcee "enters Calixta's house
             amidst nutrient rain and warmth, a fore-shadowing of his sexual entrance to
             come" (Baker). We also read that just before the storm, Calixta "felt very
             warm and often stopped to mop her face which the perspiration beads
             gathered on" (The Storm Chopin 649). These images point to heat, which
             indicates the heat of desire that Calixta and Alcee will experience.
             Baker also observes that Calixta's name is significant to the story. He
             As a floral calyx unfolds its protective sepals to present the
             flower, Calixta has opened to receive sexual and emotional
             fulfillment for the first time in an atmosphere of natural fecundity.
             Her name suggests that in her moment of love . . . her identity
             becomes one with the unfolding reproductive power of nature itself.
             Evidence of this occurs when Calixta is described as "inviolate; a
             passionate creature whose very defenselessness ha
             ...