To the Lighthouse 7

In this section of the novel, the characters consider the idea of an individual's subjective interpretation. As the Ramseys sail to the Lighthouse, James compares his childhood interpretation of the lighthouse that was mysterious and exciting with the somewhat plain reality of the place. He decides that "Nothing was simply one thing" so both are equally valuable. Lily also comes to realize, through her understanding of Carmichael,  that Mrs. Ramsey was not a perfect person and that her actions had a degree of selfishness in them. In the end, the characters come to realizations that reconcile their respective views with those of others.