The Cone by H.G. Wells (1905)
The story revolves around a group of people who are trapped inside a mysterious cone-shaped structure that appears to be indestructible and impenetrable. The cone's surface is smooth and featureless, with no visible means of entry or exit. As the characters try to find a way out, they begin to experience strange and unexplained phenomena within the cone. They discover that time seems to be passing differently inside the structure, with some people experiencing accelerated aging while others remain youthful. The story explores themes of isolation, confinement, and the effects of time dilation on human psychology. The characters' experiences raise questions about the nature of reality and the consequences of being trapped in a unique environment. Throughout the narrative, the cone's purpose and origin remain unclear, adding to the sense of mystery and unease.
By H.G. Wells · First published 1905 · Genre: Horror, Drama, Psychological Thriller · 5,238 words
First lines
The night was hot and overcast, the sky red-rimmed with the lingering sunset of midsummer. They sat at the open window, trying to fancy the air was fresher there. The trees and shrubs of the garden stood stiff and dark; beyond in the roadway a gas-lamp burnt, bright orange against the hazy blue of the evening. Farther were the three lights of the railway signal against the lowering sky. The man and woman spoke to one another in low tones.
"He does not suspect? " said the man, a little nervously.
What this Textopian page supports
The Cone is listed on Textopian as a short story by H.G. Wells, dated 1905 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: 1905 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Horror, Drama, Psychological Thriller, Industrial Fiction, Tragedy
- Length: 5,238 words
- Structure: 1 section, 98 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Cone 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 Cone?
- How does this short story by H.G. Wells fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Horror first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Moth by H. G. Wells
- In The Avu Observatory by H. G. Wells
- The Planet With No Nightmare by Jim Harmon
- The Purple Pileus by H. G. Wells
- The Beautiful Suit by H. G. Wells
- A Modern Wonder by James Mcintyre
Genres
- Horror — The story contains elements of suspense, fear, and a gruesome climax involving death by fire, which are characteristic of horror.
- Drama — The narrative focuses on intense emotional conflicts, betrayal, and a dramatic confrontation between characters.
- Psychological Thriller — The plot delves into the psychological tension and manipulation between the characters, creating a sense of unease and anticipation.
- Industrial Fiction — The setting and themes revolve around industrial landscapes and the impact of machinery, which are central to the story.
Tags
Science Fiction · Dystopian · Satire · Social Commentary · Utopian · Philosophical · Speculative · Futuristic · Psychological · Societal Critique · Existential · Human Condition