The Country of the Blind, and Other Stories By: H. G. Wells (1866-1946)
In H. G. Wells' collection of stories, "The Country of the Blind, and Other Stories," readers are transported to a realm where imagination knows no bounds. Through a masterful blend of science fiction, fantasy, and social commentary, Wells showcases his ability to explore the depths of human nature and society’s potential evolution in a captivating and thought-provoking manner. One of the standout tales in the collection is the eponymous "The Country of the Blind." Set in an isolated valley tucked away from the rest of the world, this story enthralls readers with its vivid descriptions and evocative imagery. Here, Wells invites us to contemplate the age-old question of whether ignorance is indeed bliss. As the protagonist encounters a population utterly lacking sight, society takes on an entirely new dimension. Through the eyes of Nunez, a visitor who possesses the extraordinary gift of vision, we witness the clash between the visually impaired and the lone outsider. With poignant depth, Wells delves into profound themes such as the nature of reality, the pursuit of knowledge, and the price one might pay for being different. The collection also offers an assortment of lesser-known stories that do not shy away from tackling pressing issues of Wells’ time. "The Door in the Wall," for example, delves into the conflict between individual desires and societal expectations. In this mesmerizing narrative, Wells explores the allure of escapism and the human longing for a reality that lies beyond our reach. By portraying a protagonist torn between the ordinary world and a mysterious portal to wonderment, the author forces readers to ponder the sacrifices made when one chooses either conformity or embracing the extraordinary. Wells' writing style is both accessible and immersive, allowing readers to swiftly delve into his imaginative worlds. His skillful pacing ensures that the reader is constantly gripped and enticed by each story's unique premise. The author expertly weaves intricate narratives that not only entertain but also allow for introspection. With insightful allegories and clever symbolism, Wells subtly dissects societal norms and confronts the reader with uncomfortable truths. Although "The Country of the Blind, and Other Stories" was first published in 1911, its themes and messages remain just as relevant today. These timeless tales encourage readers to question the boundaries of knowledge, confront their innermost desires, and challenge established conventions. Wells' ability to convey complex ideas through engaging narratives makes this collection a must-read for both fans of science fiction and those seeking intellectual stimulation. In conclusion, "The Country of the Blind, and Other Stories" is a remarkable collection that showcases H. G. Wells' extraordinary imagination and profound insights into the human condition. With its explorations of reality versus perception, conformity versus individuality, and the pursuit of knowledge, Wells leaves readers captivated and yearning for more. This collection is a testament to the lasting impact of Wells' work, cementing his place as one of the most influential writers of the science fiction genre. First Page: THE COUNTRY OF THE BLIND And Other Stories H. G. WELLS [Illustration: He stopped, and then made a dash to escape from their closing ranks.] INTRODUCTION The enterprise of Messrs. T. Nelson & Sons and the friendly accommodation of Messrs. Macmillan render possible this collection in one cover of all the short stories by me that I care for any one to read again. Except for the two series of linked incidents that make up the bulk of the book called Tales of Space and Time , no short story of mine of the slightest merit is excluded from this volume. Many of very questionable merit find a place; it is an inclusive and not an exclusive gathering. And the task of selection and revision brings home to me with something of the effect of discovery that I was once an industrious writer of short stories, and that I am no longer anything of the kind. I have not written one now for quite a long time, and in the past five or six years I have made scarcely one a year. The bulk of the fifty or sixty tales from which this present three and thirty have been chosen dates from the last century. This edition is more definitive than I supposed when first I arranged for it. In the presence of so conclusive an ebb and cessation an almost obituary manner seems justifiable. I find it a little difficult to disentangle the causes that have restricted the flow of these inventions... Continue reading book >>

The Country of the Blind, and Other Stories By: H. G. Wells (1866-1946)

In H. G. Wells' collection of stories, "The Country of the Blind, and Other Stories," readers are transported to a realm where imagination knows no bounds. Through a masterful blend of science fiction, fantasy, and social commentary, Wells showcases his ability to explore the depths of human nature and society’s potential evolution in a captivating and thought-provoking manner.

One of the standout tales in the collection is the eponymous "The Country of the Blind." Set in an isolated valley tucked away from the rest of the world, this story enthralls readers with its vivid descriptions and evocative imagery. Here, Wells invites us to contemplate the age-old question of whether ignorance is indeed bliss. As the protagonist encounters a population utterly lacking sight, society takes on an entirely new dimension. Through the eyes of Nunez, a visitor who possesses the extraordinary gift of vision, we witness the clash between the visually impaired and the lone outsider. With poignant depth, Wells delves into profound themes such as the nature of reality, the pursuit of knowledge, and the price one might pay for being different.

The collection also offers an assortment of lesser-known stories that do not shy away from tackling pressing issues of Wells’ time. "The Door in the Wall," for example, delves into the conflict between individual desires and societal expectations. In this mesmerizing narrative, Wells explores the allure of escapism and the human longing for a reality that lies beyond our reach. By portraying a protagonist torn between the ordinary world and a mysterious portal to wonderment, the author forces readers to ponder the sacrifices made when one chooses either conformity or embracing the extraordinary.

Wells' writing style is both accessible and immersive, allowing readers to swiftly delve into his imaginative worlds. His skillful pacing ensures that the reader is constantly gripped and enticed by each story's unique premise. The author expertly weaves intricate narratives that not only entertain but also allow for introspection. With insightful allegories and clever symbolism, Wells subtly dissects societal norms and confronts the reader with uncomfortable truths.

Although "The Country of the Blind, and Other Stories" was first published in 1911, its themes and messages remain just as relevant today. These timeless tales encourage readers to question the boundaries of knowledge, confront their innermost desires, and challenge established conventions. Wells' ability to convey complex ideas through engaging narratives makes this collection a must-read for both fans of science fiction and those seeking intellectual stimulation.

In conclusion, "The Country of the Blind, and Other Stories" is a remarkable collection that showcases H. G. Wells' extraordinary imagination and profound insights into the human condition. With its explorations of reality versus perception, conformity versus individuality, and the pursuit of knowledge, Wells leaves readers captivated and yearning for more. This collection is a testament to the lasting impact of Wells' work, cementing his place as one of the most influential writers of the science fiction genre.

First Page:

THE COUNTRY OF THE BLIND

And Other Stories

H. G. WELLS

[Illustration: He stopped, and then made a dash to escape from their closing ranks.]

INTRODUCTION

The enterprise of Messrs. T. Nelson & Sons and the friendly accommodation of Messrs. Macmillan render possible this collection in one cover of all the short stories by me that I care for any one to read again. Except for the two series of linked incidents that make up the bulk of the book called Tales of Space and Time , no short story of mine of the slightest merit is excluded from this volume. Many of very questionable merit find a place; it is an inclusive and not an exclusive gathering. And the task of selection and revision brings home to me with something of the effect of discovery that I was once an industrious writer of short stories, and that I am no longer anything of the kind. I have not written one now for quite a long time, and in the past five or six years I have made scarcely one a year. The bulk of the fifty or sixty tales from which this present three and thirty have been chosen dates from the last century. This edition is more definitive than I supposed when first I arranged for it. In the presence of so conclusive an ebb and cessation an almost obituary manner seems justifiable.

I find it a little difficult to disentangle the causes that have restricted the flow of these inventions... Continue reading book >>

eBook links
Wikipedia – H. G. Wells
Wikipedia – The Country of the Blind, and Other Stories

eBook Downloads
ePUB eBook • iBooks for iPhone and iPad • Nook • Sony Reader	Kindle eBook • Mobi file format for Kindle
Read eBook • Load eBook in browser	Text File eBook • Computers • Windows • Mac