To the Lighthouse

Description

Virginia Woolf’s « To the Lighthouse, » hailed as a pivotal work of the 20th century, stands as a modern and thought-provoking creation. Published in 1927, it draws inspiration from Woolf’s life experiences and the stream-of-consciousness techniques employed by literary figures like James Joyce and Marcel Proust. The novel chronicles the Ramsey family’s visits to their summer home in the Hebrides on the Isle of Skye across a decade. However, rather than focusing on their physical surroundings and activities, the narrative delves deeply into their inner thoughts and observations.

As the family—comprising Mr. and Mrs. Ramsey and their children—navigates the complexities of loss, disappointment, resentment, and the relentless march of time, the reader gains access to their internal struggles. While the setting of the summer home and the unchanging lighthouse nearby remains constant, the family members are profoundly impacted by themes of war, loss, and the isolating nature of loneliness.

« To the Lighthouse » is a captivating exploration of the human psyche, demonstrating how profoundly individuals inhabit their own thoughts and emotions. It meticulously uncovers the characters’ inner worlds through seemingly trivial and ordinary moments, gradually unveiling their true selves. This edition includes an insightful biographical afterword, offering a deeper understanding of Woolf’s own life and influences on the novel.