The major theme of this psychological fantasy by H. G. Wells is the conflict between reality (logic) and imagination. A precocious five-year old from a loveless household is permitted to walk the streets of London alone. One day he is drawn to a door that opens to an enchanted garden where he is greeted by tame animals and a beautiful, loving woman and plays with friendly children. Despite achieving great success in life, he becomes obsessed with re-visiting the garden. Other themes: childhood neglect, alienation and loneliness, escape, regret, obsession, success vs. happiness. More…
Archives
Waldo
In this science fiction fantasy by Robert Heinlein, Earth needs help from “Waldo”, an eccentric genius born with degenerative muscle weakness. Angry at mankind after being cheated out of a ground-breaking invention, Waldo lives as a recluse in a gravity-free home in orbit above the planet. Earth’s problem is a series of physically impossible breakdowns in “deKalbs”, radiant power receptors used to power everything from vehicles to cities. With help from a little magic, he not only solves this but also makes three other important discoveries. Themes: identity, conquering disability, self-reliance and independence, science vs. “magic”. More…