The War Of The Worlds (1898) By H.G. Wells

"No one would have believed in the last years of the nineteenth century that this world was being watched keenly and closely by intelligences greater than man's and yet as mortal as his own..."

Once again, I find myself baffled by how ahead of its time a science fiction novel from the mid to late 1800's is. H.G. Wells is, of course, one of the foremost names in early science fiction, and this, arguably his most famous work, is testament to why he is so revered.

"Be a man!... What good is religion if it collapses under calamity? Think of what earthquakes and floods, wars and volcanoes, have done before to men! Did you think that God had exempted [us]?"

What I find most striking is the distinct feeling of realism, despite the obvious science fiction elements of the story, that is so consistent in the book. Everything is so intricately described and laid bare that you feel almost as though the events in the book really did take place.

"This isn't a war... It never was a war, any more than there's war between man and ants."

I adore the contemporary setting and timeline of the narrative, crossed with such a modern, futuristic perception and implementation of an alien invasion. It makes for a fascinating contradiction of the two sides of the 'war', as well as a truly unique take - being that most stories featuring alien visitors happen in the late 20th and 21st century periods.

"We must remember what ruthless and utter destruction our own species has wrought, not only upon animals, such as vanished bison and the dodo, but upon its own inferior races... Are we such apostles of mercy as to complain if the Martians warred in the same spirit?"

Wells, unsurprisingly, writes with a confident, beautiful dictation, which allows for readers of varying levels to understand and enjoy his work, without sacrificing that oh-so-satisfying classical style. His 'first person' account is smoothly portrayed, and, as mentioned above, feels real - as though it is a true-to-life retelling of a recent historical event.

"Few people realise the immensity of vacancy in which the dust of the material universe swims."

My only complaint, and I use that word in the weakest sense of the word, is that there were not more to the story. It was such an intriguing read that I wish it had gone on longer. However, I appreciate that it does not outstay its welcome as a story, and keeps itself as a consise and relatively fast-paced tale.

"So some respectable dodo in the Mauritius might have lorded it in his nest, and discussed the arrival of that shipful of pitiless sailors in want of animal food. “We will peck them to death tomorrow, my dear."

It is clear to see, I am sure, that I thoroughly enjoyed this iconic piece of science fiction. I think it is unique, creative, surprisingly chilling and extraordinarily ahead of its time. There is no wonder to me, that it has proved to be such an influential and referenced source material for myriads of successful writers and filmmakers since.

"For a time I believed that mankind had been swept out of existence, and that I stood there alone, the last man left alive."