Containing loosely autobiographical elements, ‘In the Modern Vein’ is a short story detailing the romantic pursuits of the poet, Aubrey Vair. The crux of the tale focuses on Vair’s brief, platonic affair with the enigmatic Miss Smith. Will Vair return to his wife or elope with his new love? Wells allows us to experience the turmoil Vair endures in touching and unexpected detail. Given the rumours of his numerous affairs in real-life, could this be the author is trying to lay old ghosts to rest?
H.G. Wells (1866 — 1946) was a prolific writer and the author of more than 50 novels. Additionally, he wrote more than 60 short stories, alongside various scientific papers. Many of his most famous works have been adapted for film and television, including ‘The Time Machine,’ starring Guy Pearce, ‘War of the Worlds,’ starring Tom Cruise, and ‘The Invisible Man,’ starring Elizabeth Moss. Because of his various works exploring futuristic themes, Wells is regarded as one of the ‘Fathers of Science Fiction.’
