The Obliterated Man by H.G. Wells
The novel explores the concept of a man who undergoes a transformation that renders him invisible and powerless, leading to his downfall. It is set in a future where advanced technology has enabled humans to manipulate matter at a molecular level. The protagonist's transformation is a result of an experiment gone wrong. As he becomes increasingly isolated and powerless, he begins to question the nature of reality and his own existence. The novel is a commentary on the dangers of unchecked technological progress and the consequences of playing with forces beyond human control.
By H.G. Wells · First published 1902 · Genre: Science Fiction, Psychological Fiction, Satire · 3,876 words
First lines
I was -- you shall hear immediately why I am not now -- Egbert Craddock Cummins. The name remains. I am still (Heaven help me! ) Dramatic Critic to the _Fiery Cross_. What I shall be in a little while I do not know. I write in great trouble and confusion of mind. I will do what I can to make myself clear in the face of terrible difficulties. You must bear with me a little. When a man is rapidly losing his own identity, he naturally finds a difficulty in expressing himself. I will make it perfectly plain in a minute, when once I get my grip upon the story. Let me see -- where _am_ I? I wish I knew. Ah, I have it! Dead self! Egbert Craddock Cummins!
What this Textopian page supports
The Obliterated Man is listed on Textopian as a short story by H.G. Wells, dated 1902 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: 1902 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Science Fiction, Psychological Fiction, Satire, Drama, Literary Fiction
- Length: 3,876 words
- Structure: 1 section, 58 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Obliterated Man 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
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Obliterated Man?
- How does this short story by H.G. Wells fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Similar titles
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- End As A World by F. L. Wallace
- Beyond The Door by Philip K. Dick
- Desire No More by Algis Budrys
- Referent by Ray Bradbury
- The Ego Machine by Henry Kuttner
Genres
- Science Fiction — The story explores themes of identity and transformation, common in science fiction, through a speculative narrative.
- Psychological Fiction — The narrative delves into the protagonist's mental state and identity crisis, focusing on internal conflict and character development.
- Satire — The work critiques societal norms and the theatrical world, using humor and exaggeration to highlight absurdities.
- Drama — The plot revolves around personal and emotional conflicts, with a focus on the protagonist's dramatic transformation.
Tags
Science Fiction · Dystopian · Psychological Thriller · Philosophical · Existential · Social Commentary · Critique of Modernity · Alienation · Loneliness · Isolation · Identity Crisis · Human Condition