The War of the Worlds

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Tonight, to continue our 6th annual “Spooky Sleep Story Series”, we shall read the opening to “The War of the Worlds”, written by H.G. Wells and first published in 1898. Tune in every Wednesday this month for sleep stories of the darker variety- like classic horror literature and ghost stories. If you prefer to avoid the mildly macabre we hope you’ll enjoy one of our many other stories available wherever you listen to podcasts.

Catch up on previous years by finding our free standalone podcast series “Snoozecast Presents: Spooky Stories” or if you are a premium subscriber, look for “Snoozecast+” or “Snoozecast+ Deluxe: Spooky Stories” instead to listen ad-free.

H.G. Wells, often referred to as the “father of science fiction,” published The War of the Worlds in 1898, marking a groundbreaking moment in the genre. Born in 1866 in England, Wells was a prolific writer whose works spanned both fiction and non-fiction, often reflecting his deep interest in social issues, science, and human evolution. The War of the Worlds stands out as one of his most enduring and influential works, imagining a catastrophic alien invasion of Earth.

Set in Victorian England, the novel explores the vulnerability of humankind in the face of superior extraterrestrial forces, an idea that was revolutionary for its time. Wells blended scientific ideas with thrilling narrative, vividly imagining Martian invaders wielding advanced technology like heat-rays and enormous tripods. This portrayal of a technologically superior race wreaking havoc on humanity mirrored concerns of imperialism and the unknown, while questioning the assumptions of Western dominance.

The story's cultural impact is immense—most notably when Orson Welles’ 1938 radio adaptation apparently caused public panic, as listeners mistook the dramatization for a real Martian invasion. Although new data seems to suggest the extent of this “panic” may have been minimal. Wells' tale remains timeless, continuing to inspire adaptations, films, and discussions on human survival and the role of science in society. In The War of the Worlds, Wells not only entertains but also offers a compelling critique of humanity’s fragile position in the universe, showcasing the blend of imagination and intellect that defined his career.

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