To The Lighthouse Summary

The story commences immediately prior to the First World War, with the Ramsay family, Mr. and Mrs. Ramsay and their eight children, vacationing at their summer residence in Hebrides, islands located west of Scotland. A large lighthouse stands across the bay from their house and young James Ramsay is eager to visit it. Despite his mother's promise of a visit, his father dampens his spirits by predicting bad weather. The family hosts several guests, among them, Charles Tansley, who admires Mr. Ramsay's philosophy work, and Lily Briscoe, a painter working on a portrait of Mrs. Ramsay. The day is filled with activities, with Paul Rayley proposing to Minta Doyle, Lily starting on her painting and Mrs. Ramsay calming a resentful James. The evening's dinner party has its share of ups and downs but ends up being a memorable one. As the night ends, Mr. Ramsay's insecurities disturb the peace, leaving him wanting his wife to profess her love for him, which she does in her own unique way.

Following this, the narrative speeds up as war engulfs Europe. Tragedy strikes the Ramsay family as Mrs. Ramsay passes away suddenly, their eldest son Andrew is killed in battle, and their daughter Prue succumbs to a childbirth-related illness. Their summer house, now abandoned, falls into ruin. A decade passes before the family returns, and the house is restored to order by the housekeeper Mrs. McNab and her helpers. Lily Briscoe is among the returnees.

The final part of the story sees a shift back to a slower pace and changing perspectives. Mr. Ramsay decides to journey to the lighthouse with James and his daughter Cam. However, his temper flares due to delays, causing distress. Despite their father's temper and constant self-pity, the children experience a moment of fondness for him during the trip, especially James, who earns his father's praise for his sailing skills. Back at the house, Lily manages to finish the painting she abandoned on her last visit, achieving her vision on the canvas with a final decisive stroke.