Aikakone
1895
A science fiction novel written in the late 19th century. The book follows an unnamed protagonist referred to as the Time Traveler, who demonstrates a machine he claims can traverse time. The narrative is centered around his discussions and experiments regarding the fourth dimension, time, and the implications of time travel on humanity. The opening of ''Aikakone'' introduces the Time Traveler giving a lecture to a group of skeptical friends about the concept of time as a dimension, just like space. He challenges their understanding of physical dimensions, claiming that time is a tangible dimension through which one can travel, and he proposes that he has created a machine capable of doing so. As he explains his theories, he presents a model of his time machine and ultimately builds anticipation for his upcoming demonstration, leaving his audience in a mix of awe and disbelief about the potential to travel through time. The opening sets the stage for a blend of scientific inquiry and adventure, inviting readers to ponder the possibilities and consequences of such a groundbreaking invention.
Editions
X-Ray
“Nature never appeals to intelligence until habit and instinct are useless. There is no intelligence where there is no need of change.””
— H. G. Wells
“We should strive to welcome change and challenges, because they are what help us grow. With out them we grow weak like the Eloi in comfort and security. We need to constantly be challenging ourselves in order to strengthen our character and increase our intelligence. ””
— H. G. Wells
“It sounds plausible enough tonight, but wait until tomorrow. Wait for the common sense of the morning.””
— H. G. Wells
“Looking at these stars suddenly dwarfed my own troubles and all the gravities of terrestrial life.””
— H. G. Wells
“And I have by me, for my comfort, two strange white flowers - shriveled now, and brown and flat and brittle - to witness that even when mind and strength had gone, gratitude and a mutual tenderness still lived on in the heart of men.””
— H. G. Wells
“It is a law of nature we overlook, that intellectual versatility is the compensation for change, danger, and trouble. An animal perfectly in harmony with its environment is a perfect mechanism. Nature never appeals to intelligence until habit and instinct are useless. There is no intelligence where there is no change and no need of change. Only those animals partake of intelligence that have a huge variety of needs and dangers.””
— H. G. Wells
“Very simple was my explanation, and plausible enough---as most wrong theories are!””
— H. G. Wells
“We are kept keen on the grindstone of pain and necessity.””
— H. G. Wells
“Face this world. Learn its ways, watch it, be careful of too hasty guesses at its meaning. In the end you will find clues to it all.””
— H. G. Wells
