No, they didn't have any money, the sea was dangerous and men were lost, but it was a satisfying life in a way people today do not understand. There was a joinery of lives all worked together, smooth in places, or lumpy, but joined. The work and the living you did was the same things, not separated out like today.
In "The Shipping News" by Annie Proulx, the character reflects on a life at sea that, despite its challenges, was fulfilling in a way that modern life often lacks. The struggles of danger and financial instability are acknowledged, yet there is a deeper sense of satisfaction derived from a unified existence where life and work are intertwined. This connection to one's environment and community creates a meaningful lifestyle that contrasts sharply with contemporary separations in work and personal life.
The passage underscores the value of a tightly-knit community that shares the same experiences and challenges. In this world, lives are interwoven, creating a texture that feels both rich and complete. Unlike today's fast-paced lives, where work and personal life are often disconnected, the characters find importance in the collaborative nature of their existence. This blend of community, labor, and shared hardships evokes a sense of belonging and purpose that resonates with those who continue to seek similar connections in their own lives.