The Red Room (eBook)

Herbert George Wells, known to the literary world as H.G. Wells (1866–1946), was one of the eminent figures of the early 20th century in science fiction and sociology. Born to a working-class family in Kent, England, Wells found his escape in reading which later fueled his passion for writing. His formal education culminated with a degree in biology under the tutelage of T.H. Huxley at the Normal School of Science in London, influencing his scientific foresight in literature. Wells' literary repertoire is diverse, encompassing novels, short stories, and nonfiction, often blending speculative plots with social commentary. Renowned for his seminal works 'The War of the Worlds' (1898), 'The Time Machine' (1895), and 'The Invisible Man' (1897), Wells also showcased his adeptness at horror and suspense in 'The Red Room' (1896), a haunting short story emphasizing the psychological over the supernatural. His literary style often involved the use of ordinary characters in extraordinary situations, underpinned by Wells' fascination with contemporary scientific advancements and their potential future impact on society. As a prominent futurist, he also ventured into sociopolitical critique in later works such as 'The Shape of Things to Come' (1933). Wells' profound contributions to literature and social thought have established him as a pioneering force in shaping the science fiction genre and examining the human condition.