At the Lighthouse

Mrs. Ramsay told James, her six-year-old son, that if the weather was good, they would go on a trip to Faro tomorrow. The weather wouldn't be good, commented Mr. Ramsay, the philosopher.

They are vacationing on the Isle of Skye, in Scotland, at their country house — the couple with their eight children. They also have guests. Tansley, the atheist, who has managed his life without help, and is angry. William Banks, who respects Mr. Ramsay, but also sees him as a bit of a hypocrite. Lily Briscoe, who wants to paint, but is not yet married.

There is no greater happiness than marriage, thinks Mrs. Ramsay, and she is sure her daughters understand this. Mr. Ramsay thinks he has failed. Does he deserve to rest? He wants compassion.

Not much is happening outside. Inside, life is boiling. Time is passing.