The Diamond Maker by H.G. Wells
In a world where diamonds are the ultimate currency and power, a poor but brilliant inventor creates a machine that can produce diamonds at will. He becomes an overnight sensation, attracting the attention of wealthy patrons who seek to exploit his invention for their own gain. As he navigates this treacherous landscape, he must confront the consequences of his creation and decide whether to use it for personal enrichment or to bring about positive change in society.
By H.G. Wells · First published 1905 · Genre: Science Fiction, Drama, Mystery · 3,480 words
First lines
Some business had detained me in Chancery Lane until nine in the evening, and thereafter, having some inkling of a headache, I was disinclined either for entertainment or further work. So much of the sky as the high cliffs of that narrow canon of traffic left visible spoke of a serene night, and I determined to make my way down to the Embankment, and rest my eyes and cool my head by watching the variegated lights upon the river. Beyond comparison the night is the best time for this place; a merciful darkness hides the dirt of the waters, and the lights of this transition age, red, glaring orange, gas-yellow, and electric white, are set in shadowy outlines of every possible shade between grey and deep purple. Through the arches of Waterloo Bridge a hundred points of light mark the sweep of the Embankment, and above its parapet rise the towers of Westminster, warm grey against the starlight.
What this Textopian page supports
The Diamond Maker 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: Science Fiction, Drama, Mystery, Adventure, Philosophical Fiction
- Length: 3,480 words
- Structure: 1 section, 49 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Diamond Maker 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 Diamond Maker?
- 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
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- The Swamp Was Upside Down by Murray Leinster
Genres
- Science Fiction — The story explores the concept of artificially creating diamonds, a scientific endeavor that aligns with speculative and futuristic themes.
- Drama — The narrative delves into the personal struggles and ambitions of the protagonist, highlighting emotional and psychological conflicts.
- Mystery — The plot involves the enigmatic character of the diamond maker and the uncertainty surrounding his claims, creating a sense of intrigue.
- Adventure — The protagonist's journey and the risks involved in his diamond-making quest add an element of adventure to the story.
Tags
Science Fiction · Fantasy · Adventure · Mystery · Romance · Philosophy · Social Commentary · Utopian · Dystopian · Alchemical · Magical Realism · Coming of Age