The Eye of the Hurricane

Style

Symbolism

• The Danish wreck, the Dinesen, serves as a powerful symbol throughout the story. Initially described as intact and proud, it symbolises Captain Stevens in his better days.
• As Captain Stevens' life deteriorates due to grief and alcoholism, the condition of the Dinesen parallels this decline, with the ship becoming looted and damaged.
• The final state of the Dinesen, disintegrated and reduced to a hollow hull, reflects Captain Stevens' ultimate downfall.

The Use of Language

• Each character's language reflects their individual outlook on life. Captain Stevens uses naval metaphors and references to the sea, mirroring his background as a sailor.
• Barclay's language often includes religious imagery, emphasising his Catholic faith and moral code.

First-Person Narrative

• The story is presented in the first-person narrative, with Barclay as the narrator.
• This narrative style provides insight into the outsider perspective of the community, offering a reliable and comprehensive view of the characters and events.