Symbolism, Imagery, Allegory
The storm that strikes the boat is a great force of nature: a tempest of wind and waves that washes over the Seahawk and rips her (almost) to shreds (Chapter 15). The storm is part of the natural world. How does natural change accompany change on the boat? Is change natural? We should also take notice of how the storm affects the captain's cabin and all of his belongings (21.36).