Typhoon by Joseph Conrad

First published in 1902 as a serial in Pall Mall Magazine, the adventure novel follows the disrupting events onboard a steamboat after it takes a perilous course at sea, which triggers a state of mayhem onboard the steamer. Furthermore, the incident prompts the crew to gradually reveal their true nature which is brought to light in the time of crisis. Interestingly, the tale is believed to possess some autobiographical elements taken from Conrad’s own experiences at sea, which provide the novel with a strong foundation, as he effectively uses personification, imagery, and descriptive language to accurately illustrate the danger and chaos instigated by a powerful storm at sea. The nautical tale begins with the introduction of Captain John Mac Whirr, a stolid and steadfast man who is the captain of Nan-Shan, a Siamese steamer carrying Chinese workers back to their homeland. Also onboard the ship is its crew including Jukes, the first mate, and Solomon Rout, the chief engineer, both of w