The painting is a testament to folkloric and religious belief in the Vodou goddess La Sirene.

Even in this bleak scene of devastation, an offering was invoked to summon the Loa for rescue. A raft full of fruit and vessels floats towards their beloved deity. Those stranded on the rock broken ship are waving their hands in the air, one holding a makeshift red flag. Even when there is no apparent chance of rescue, hope and resilience abound which is due to their faith and devotion to La Sirene.

The scene is one of a Vodou ritual that transcends beyond what is perceivably possible.

The wish to be saved is granted, and to the far right a small vessel can be seen in the distance. Two figures see the boat, but the others who are in the middle of their ceremonial offering are oblivious that their prayers have been answered.

The image of Shipwreck can be found in Where Art is Joy and La Peinture Haitienne. Shipwreck may be the most identifiable of Benoit's paintings.

This painting is an important Haitian art masterpiece.