I don't think it derails Larks thread, unless it becomes a lengthy discussion, but just to precise things (to others): if efforts on a boat - and they are diverse and sometimes enormous - can effectively have destructive effects (yes: can "sort of" spit by the middle: look at the so many re-fastening along the rabbet), they usually and happily only cause a movement in the boat, permitted by it's flexibility. Perfect rigidity is impossible, and any movement in a material causes fatigue. A proper construction will ensure that there is no exaggerated movement at any particular point, and the "pyramid-like" shape of a boat's bow will need strong connection at the apex to ensure this, and not only along the edges. Well connecting Port and Starboard beam clamps, together with the stem is a rule. The king plank is there to transfer the longitudinal pressure of the fore-stay right to the mast, as well as to increase the bows rigidity.

On Larks boat, with quite some bow overhang, a jib whose tack is right on the bow piece, and designed by a Naval Architect who was very minimal on his scantling, I would pay attention at keeping such essential connections as the forward breasthook in good condition.