The Apple by H.G. Wells (1898)
This novel explores the concept of a utopian society where humans live in harmony with nature and technology has eliminated poverty, war, and disease. The story follows a group of people who travel to a distant planet to establish a new colony, but they soon discover that their actions have unintended consequences on the native inhabitants.
By H.G. Wells · First published 1898 · Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Philosophical Fiction · 3,649 words
First lines
"I must get rid of it," said the man in the corner of the carriage, abruptly breaking the silence.
Mr. Hinchcliff looked up, hearing imperfectly. He had been lost in the rapt contemplation of the college cap tied by a string to his portmanteau handles -- the outward and visible sign of his newly-gained pedagogic position -- in the rapt appreciation of the college cap and the pleasant anticipations it excited. For Mr. Hinchcliff had just matriculated at London University, and was going to be junior assistant at the Holmwood Grammar School -- a very enviable position. He stared across the carriage at his fellow-traveller.
What this Textopian page supports
The Apple is listed on Textopian as a short story by H.G. Wells, dated 1898 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: H.G. Wells
- Date: 1898 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Philosophical Fiction, Allegory, Adventure
- Length: 3,649 words
- Structure: 1 section, 69 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Apple by H.G. Wells
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Apple?
- How does this short story by H.G. Wells fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Science Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Einstein See Saw by Miles J. Breuer
- In The Abyss by H. G. Wells
- The Flying Man by H. G. Wells
- The Beautiful Suit by H. G. Wells
- Anchorite by Randall Garrett
- Signs And Wonders by J. D. Beresford
Genres
- Science Fiction — The story involves a fantastical element, the Apple of the Tree of Knowledge, which is presented as a real object with extraordinary properties, aligning with science fiction's exploration of speculative concepts.
- Fantasy — The narrative includes mythical elements such as the Garden of Eden and the Apple of Knowledge, which are central to the plot and create a fantastical setting.
- Philosophical Fiction — The story explores deep philosophical questions about knowledge, power, and happiness, prompting readers to consider the implications of possessing ultimate knowledge.
- Allegory — The tale serves as an allegory for the pursuit of knowledge and the potential consequences of such a pursuit, using symbolic elements to convey deeper meanings.
Tags
Science Fiction · Dystopian · Utopian · Social Commentary · Satire · Philosophical · Speculative · Futuristic · Class Struggle · Revolutionary · Propaganda · Critique of Capitalism