The short story "The Open Boat" by Stephen Crane, tells a story about the physical and emotional pressure caused by nature, which four men face to survive while stranded at sea in a lifeboat. The captain, oiler, cook, and the correspondent all respond emotionally and physically different to the stressors that nature provides while stranded at sea.
The captain although hurt from the sinking of his ship; still maintained his leadership role in the lifeboat. He gave direction and guidance to the crew as they rowed for shore. The captain was the character that was the least affected emotionally by the forces of nature around him. During the ordeal he "...spoke always in a low voice and calmly..." as a leader should in trying times. While the cook and correspondent swore at the gulls he simply batted away the one that landed on his head. Also, the physical stress on the captain was immense.
USS Halyburton prepares for replenishment at sea.
White House Correspondents Dinner
USNS Joshua Humphreys refuels USS Boxer during rep...Injured by the sinking of the Commodore he had to face the elements while lying in the bow of the small craft. The captain kept control, lead the ready, and obedient crew to the end of there journey.
The oiler kept a strong mind and body while at sea. He didn't show his emotional stress like the others, but eagerly asked questions when the people on shore were spotted. Although the captain called the oiler by his first name, the oiler always showed the captain the respect of calling him sir. That is the oiler's way of dealing with the stress of the journey. Physically the oiler was drained, because he had to fight against the waves to get to shore while he tried not to capsize the lifeboat. This took its toll on him. "The oiler plied the oars until...