If you have read some of my articles before then you definitely encounter with his name. In fact, recently I mentioned about him because somehow the topics are always related to his works. It was funny when I realized that. And by a chance, if you are reading this as your first one among my articles or haven’t seen his name in my previous articles, then you are lucky. Because you have a brilliant novelist to meet up with.
Anyway, I will not stop talking about him since he is indeed my all time favourite novelist. I believe he is a revolutionary wordsmith and I am glad to read his novellas and stories. Hope that someday I will be able to transfer my thoughts and dreams on my stories just like he did.
As the 13th of August dawns upon us, it marks a significant day in literary history — the anniversary of the passing of Herbert George Wells. A true pioneer of his time, Wells left an indelible mark on the world of literature with his groundbreaking science fiction and visionary storytelling. His legacy continues to inspire and captivate new generations, reminding us of the impact one imaginative mind can have on the world.
Born on September 21, 1866, in Bromley, Kent, England, H.G. Wells (his pseudonym was Reginald Bliss) exhibited a prodigious intellect from a young age. He overcame a modest upbringing to become one of the most influential authors of his era. Wells’ literary contributions span an array of genres, but it’s his science fiction works that have solidified his place in history. He was certainly a prolific writer of both fiction and non-fiction novels, with over 100 published books. (I read they are 139 in total but I am unsure specifically)
Wells’ imagination knew no bounds, and his ability to predict technological and scientific advancements was uncanny. His classic novel “The War of the Worlds”, published in 1898, painted a vivid picture of a Martian invasion, startling readers with its portrayal of interplanetary conflict. The book’s realism and attention to scientific detail allowed readers to suspend their disbelief and be transported to a world on the brink of chaos.
Another fascinating and famous work, “The Time Machine”, took readers on a journey through time, exploring the distant future (the year 802701 to be precise) and the evolution of humanity. Wells’ exploration of time travel not only captured readers’ imaginations but also paved the way for an entire subgenre of science fiction. The book is have a background for social and politics debate too, since he was a socialist.
Therefore, Wells was not content with merely entertaining readers; his works often delved into social and ethical issues of his time. “The Invisible Man” grappled with the consequences of unchecked power and the fine line between scientific discovery and moral responsibility. “The Island of Doctor Moreau” challenged societal norms and raised questions about the boundaries of scientific experimentation. He was a science teacher and trained academic in biology field so that knowledge helped him writing this novel.
His influence extended beyond the written words. Wells’ ideas inspired radio dramas, movies, and television adaptations; showcasing the timelessness of his concepts. Even today, filmmakers and storytellers draw inspiration from his works, reimagining his narratives for new generations. I suggest you to watch The Time Machine (2002). (there are two movies, haven’t watch the 1960 production yet)
As we reflect on the legacy of H.G. Wells, it’s impossible to ignore his foresight and the relevance of his themes to our modern world. His exploration of alien invasions, time travel, and ethical dilemmas remains as relevant as ever in an era defined by rapid technological advancements and moral quandaries. Besides that in his non-fiction works, we can see works of “A Modern Utopia” or “A Short History of the World” which were fascinating back then and still.
Some of the novels and short story collections from my Wells corner
It is just the tip of the iceberg, of course. There are tons of short stories and novels and academic articles he penned. Personally, I feel that as a writer candidate I should pay more attention to my predecessors if I want to write like them. Not exactly like them (as if I could) but want to have the same feeling on my writings like when I read theirs. And Mr. Wells is one of my guides, maybe the first one I would seek for advise.
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