Justify the title of the novel, “To the Lighthouse.”

Answer

Justify the title of the novel, “To the Lighthouse.” [NU: 2021]

Or, Examine the aptness of the title “To the Lighthouse.” [NU: 2017]

Virginia Woolf’s (1882–1941) “To the Lighthouse” (1927) is a family novel set in the summer house in the Hebrides. Mr. Ramsay is a philosopher. Mrs. Ramsay is a loving mother. Their eight children live with them. Guests like Lily Briscoe, Charles Tansley, William Bankes, Paul Rayley, Minta Doyle, and Augustus Carmichael visit. The Lighthouse is not only a place. It is the center of the story.

James’s Childhood Desire: The title is justified because the story begins with James Ramsay’s wish to go to the Lighthouse. From the summer house window, he sees it shining across the bay. He dreams of visiting. Mrs. Ramsay promises, 

“Yes, of course, if it’s fine tomorrow.” 

Mr. Ramsay breaks the hope. He says, 

“But, it won’t be fine”.

James becomes angry at this. He hates his father. Woolf says about him that, 

“Had there been an axe handy……would have gashed a hole in his father’s breast and killed him.”

His early dream is the seed of the whole novel.

Symbol of Family Conflict and Healing: The Lighthouse stands as a witness to family conflict. James hates his father for destroying hope. Cam also fears Mr. Ramsay’s temper. Later, in the last section, Mr. Ramsay goes to the Lighthouse with James and Cam. At first, the boat is full of anger and silence. But then Mr. Ramsay praises James. He says, 

“Well done!” James had steered them like a born sailor”.

James feels recognized. Cam also feels love. Old bitterness melts away. The journey heals the broken family bond.

Connection with Mrs. Ramsay: The title is also linked with Mrs. Ramsay. She promised the trip. But she died before it happened. Her presence is felt even after death. Lily Briscoe paints her. James remembers her. Mr. Ramsay misses her love.