The New Accelerator by H.G. Wells
The story revolves around a mysterious device that accelerates the aging process of those who use it, allowing them to live for centuries but also experiencing accelerated decay and eventual death. The protagonist discovers the device and uses it, leading to a series of events that challenge his perception of time and mortality.
By H.G. Wells · First published 1891 · Genre: Science Fiction, Adventure, Fantasy · 6,628 words
First lines
Certainly, if ever a man found a guinea when he was looking for a pin, it is my good friend Professor Gibberne. I have heard before of investigators overshooting the mark, but never quite to the extent that he has done. He has really, this time at any rate, without any touch of exaggeration in the phrase, found something to revolutionise human life. And that when he was simply seeking an all-round nervous stimulant to bring languid people up to the stresses of these pushful days. I have tasted the stuff now several times, and I cannot do better than describe the effect the thing had on me. That there are astonishing experiences in store for all in search of new sensations will become apparent enough.
What this Textopian page supports
The New Accelerator is listed on Textopian as a short story by H.G. Wells, dated 1891 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: 1891 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Science Fiction, Adventure, Fantasy, Philosophical Fiction, Satire
- Length: 6,628 words
- Structure: 1 section, 117 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The New Accelerator by H.G. Wells
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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- How does this short story by H.G. Wells fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Genres
- Science Fiction — The story explores speculative scientific advancements and their impact on human life, a hallmark of science fiction.
- Adventure — The narrative involves an adventurous exploration of the effects of a new drug, leading to extraordinary experiences.
- Fantasy — The concept of drastically altering time perception introduces fantastical elements beyond current scientific reality.
- Philosophical Fiction — The story delves into philosophical questions about time, perception, and the nature of human experience.
Tags
Science Fiction · Short Story · Time Travel · Accelerated Time · Social Commentary · Satire · Humor · Philosophical Themes · Existentialism · Human Condition · Psychological Insight · Scientific Speculation