Honest review of In the Days of the Comet

by H. G. Wells (Author)

Updated at: 27/02/2025

H.G. Wells's In the Days of the Comet is a captivating utopian novel exploring themes of societal transformation and the potential for lasting peace. A mysterious comet's tail releases a gas, plunging the world into a temporary sleep, only to awaken humanity with newfound harmony and altruism. Following the journey of Willie Leadford, the story delves into class struggles, labor unrest, and evolving relationships in this altered world. This annotated edition provides rich historical context, a detailed biography of Wells, insightful literary analysis, and an essay exploring his work, offering a complete understanding of this timeless classic and its enduring relevance to contemporary concerns. Will this newfound utopia last? Discover the answer within the pages of this beautifully presented, original text.

3.7 / 135 ratings

Review In the Days of the Comet

H.G. Wells' In the Days of the Comet is a fascinating, if somewhat uneven, read. It's a book that rewards patience and a willingness to engage with its very specific historical and social context. While billed as science fiction, it's more accurately a social commentary cloaked in a fantastical premise: a comet's tail alters the Earth's atmosphere, fundamentally changing human behavior, leading to a sudden, almost utopian shift in global harmony.

The initial sections, depicting the pre-comet world, can feel a bit slow. Wells doesn't shy away from lengthy descriptions, and the detailed portrayal of Edwardian-era social anxieties—class struggles, labor unrest, and the stifling societal norms—might feel tedious for some modern readers. It's here that the socialist leanings of Wells become most prominent, a fact that some reviewers found off-putting, while others appreciated the historical insight. Honestly, I found myself oscillating between both viewpoints; the social commentary felt both relevant and, at times, overly preachy.

However, once the comet makes its appearance and the "great change" occurs, the narrative gains momentum. Wells' imagination shines through in the depiction of this transformed world, where people are suddenly imbued with empathy and cooperation. The book explores fascinating themes of collective change, altruism, and even polyamory, all presented within the framework of this fantastical shift. The descriptions of the new world are, at times, breathtakingly beautiful, showcasing Wells' talent for evocative prose. Specific passages describing the altered landscape and the emotional states of the characters really resonated with me.

However, the abrupt shift to utopia does feel somewhat abrupt and unearned, lacking the gradual development that might have made the transformation more believable. The lack of a scientific explanation for the comet's effects also felt somewhat jarring; it's a plot device that propels the narrative forward but leaves some questions unanswered. The book's overall length also contributes to a sense of lingering details that, while beautifully written, could have been trimmed for pacing.

The annotated edition I read provided helpful context, offering biographies, literary analyses, and historical background. This added layer significantly enhanced my understanding of the book's place within Wells' oeuvre and the societal currents of its time. However, I agree with some reviewers that this book might not be suitable for younger readers due to the mature themes explored.

In conclusion, In the Days of the Comet is a complex and thought-provoking work that combines science fiction elements with a potent social message. While it’s not a perfect book, and its pacing can be uneven, its imaginative scope and beautiful prose make it a worthy read for those interested in exploring both Wells' unique style and the social anxieties of the early 20th century. It's certainly a book that sparks conversation, even if it doesn't always land perfectly.