The Time Machine

Wow. WOW!

I did not intend to read this book all in one sitting today. I was amazed at how instantly engaging this was. Have I really not read any Wells before? I guess not, because his visionary genius and captivating storytelling would have made an impression. Sadly I think the execrable 2002 movie put me off the idea of this story; little did I know how much it disrespected its source material!

I found this required no adjustment for the time in which it was written. The language is straightforward and the story fresh. The introductory lesson in space-time dimensions drew me in right away, and on reflection is amazing for its anticipation of relativity. It's a lean story that doesn't overstay its welcome, and maintained my thirst to know what would happen next.

Finally, the latter portion treads boldly into cosmic horror, presaging Lovecraft's vision of a universe indifferent to humanity. It's downright chilling, and fantastically imaginative and bold.

Looks like I have some catching up to do with Wells's other fiction!