The story explores themes of femininity and sexuality through the characters of Calixta and Alcee. When a powerful storm hits, Calixta's husband and son take shelter elsewhere, leaving her alone at home. Alcee, an old flame, also comes to take shelter. They end up having passionate sex while waiting out the storm. This was scandalous at the time as it depicted a woman exploring and acting on her sexual desires independently of her marital duties. The story challenged social norms by portraying female sexuality and pleasure outside the role of wife and mother. It showed how nature and primal