Grann vividly depicts the harrowing conditions aboard an 18th-century warship, highlighting the perils faced by sailors beyond enemy encounters. From disease and starvation to treacherous storms and the constant threat of shipwreck, the book unveils the brutal reality of life at sea during the age of exploration.

The conflicting accounts of the Wager's survivors raise profound questions about the nature of truth and the power of storytelling. As each faction presents their version of events, Grann masterfully exposes how desperation, self-preservation, and personal biases can shape narratives.

The court martial at the heart of 'The Wager' throws light on the complexities of justice within the rigid hierarchy of the 18th-century British Navy. Grann explores the challenges of achieving true impartiality amidst political pressures, societal prejudices, and the weight of competing narratives.