The Social and Economic Context of Wrecking in "The Lighthouse"

The economic incentive for wrecking was particularly strong in areas where alternative means of sustenance were scarce. The text notes that some individuals did not hesitate to cause wrecks by displaying false lights to lure vessels to destruction^[1]. These wreckers then profited from the remains of the ships and their cargo. The book describes wreckers as 'a class of men who, in the absence of an efficient coast-guard, subsisted to a large extent on what they picked up from the wrecks that were cast in their way'^[1].

While the act of deliberately causing a shipwreck was undoubtedly criminal, the line between assisting distressed vessels and exploiting their misfortune was often blurred^[1]. The text suggests that 'not all wreckers were guilty of such crimes, but many of them were so, and their style of life, at the best, had naturally a demoralizing influence upon all of them'^[1]. This moral gray area was further complicated by the lack of effective legal oversight and the desperation of coastal communities facing economic hardship^[1].

The narrative provides a glimpse into the economic realities and moral compromises associated with wrecking through the character of Big Swankie. After a storm, Swankie and Davy Spink ventured out to the 'celebrated and much dreaded Inch Cape—more familiarly known as the Bell Rock' in search of wrecks^[1]. Their dialogue and actions reveal the opportunistic nature of wrecking, with the expectation of finding 'something' after a storm that ‘strewing the coast with wrecks’^[1].

Swankie's discovery of a dead man and his subsequent actions exemplify the ethical dilemmas inherent in wrecking. Initially, Swankie's impulse was to alert his companion, but he then checked himself and examined the dead man's pockets^[1]. Finding valuables such as a gold watch, rings, brooches, and sovereigns, Swankie attempts to conceal his find from Spink, illustrating the temptation and moral compromises involved^[1].

The encounter between Swankie and Spink highlights the tensions between their shared venture and individual greed. Spink's arrival leads to a dispute over the division of the discovered wealth^[1]. Swankie's rationalization and Spink's willingness to participate, despite initial reservations, underscore the complex moral landscape of wrecking^[1]. They found nothing more of any value, but a piece of paper was discovered, wrapped up in oilskin, and carefully fastened with red tape, in the vest pocket of the dead man'^[1]. This paper contained writing, but Swankie refolded the paper, and thrust it into his bosom, saying, Come, we're wasting time. Let's get on wi' our wark'^[1].

The narrative contrasts this era of frequent wrecks and opportunistic wrecking with a future where advancements in maritime safety would reduce such practices^[1]. The construction of lighthouses, such as the one on Bell Rock, symbolized a shift towards greater safety and regulation, challenging the traditional reliance on wrecking as a source of income^[1]. The decision to build a lighthouse on the Bell Rock illustrates an intention to mitigate the terror mariners faced^[1]. This initiative directly threatened the economic interests of those who depended on shipwrecks, signalling a changing attitude towards maritime activities and coastal economies.

Wrecking, as depicted in the book, was shaped by a complex interplay of economic pressures, moral ambiguities, and evolving legal frameworks^[1]. While providing a means of survival for some coastal communities, the practice also perpetuated a cycle of exploitation and danger. As technology advanced with the construction of lighthouses, and laws were put in place, the reliance on wrecking diminished, reflecting a gradual shift towards more regulated and ethical maritime practices^[1].