Subject
Electricity -- Fiction Books
Best books
George Chetwynd Griffith
The World Masters
"The World Masters" by George Chetwynd Griffith is a novel written in the early 20th century. This science fiction work blends elements of political intrigue and complex character relationships, focusing on themes of power, ambition, and manipulation. The story centers around Doctor Emil Fargeau, a brilliant scientist who, in his desperation to see France reclaim its greatness, invents a device capable of inflicting unparalleled destruction on their enemies. The opening of the novel introduces us to Doctor Emil Fargeau, who is in a fervent state of anticipation within his laboratory in Strasbourg, preparing for a crucial experiment that could change the fate of nations. As he succeeds in shattering a steel plate with his invention, he envisions a future where France dominates the world again, alongside his son's potential bride, Adelaide de Condé, a descendant of noble lineage. Simultaneously, we glimpse the romantic and diplomatic tensions brewing at the German Embassy in Petersburg, where the prince and his beautiful daughter, whom Emil views as essential to his plans, are entwined in the complex web of European politics. This dramatic juxtaposition sets the stage for a fascinating exploration of the intertwining fates of these characters and the catastrophic global implications of Fargeau's discovery.
Albert Robida
Le Vingtième Siècle: La Vie Électrique
"Le Vingtième Siècle: La Vie Électrique" by Albert Robida is a science fiction novel published in 1892. Set in France in 1955, the story follows scientist Philox Lorris as he introduces transformative electrical technologies that reshape society. Robida imagines a future of constant communication through "Tele screens," airship traffic, escalating warfare with chemical and biological weapons, and a population overwhelmed by stress and nervous exhaustion. Written with satirical wit and illustrated by the author himself, this darkly comic vision anticipated modern life with startling accuracy.
Arthur Stringer
Phantom Wires: A Novel
"Phantom Wires: A Novel" by Arthur Stringer is a fictional narrative likely written in the early 20th century. The story follows James L. Durkin, an electrical expert who grapples with his tumultuous past and current predicaments while navigating the vibrant yet toxic environment of Monte Carlo. The themes of human desire, moral conflict, and the struggle against fate seem to be central to the story as Durkin's life intertwines with enticing challenges and the specters of his former existence. The opening of the novel introduces Durkin as a man grappling with despair and an uncertain future, counting his meager coins in his hotel room before the backdrop of the Mediterranean. As he contemplates an advertisement calling him back to action, memories of his wife, Frances, resurface with a sense of urgency and longing. The narrative quickly shifts, revealing that Frances has been entangled in her own struggles, not only in achieving independence but also in uncovering complex secrets related to espionage and looming dangers. This dynamic creates an intriguing foundation for their re-encounter and raises questions about loyalty, redemption, and the moral choices they face together in a world rife with deception and intrigue.
Walt Richmond
Poppa Needs Shorts
"Poppa Needs Shorts" by Walt Richmond and Leigh Richmond is a short story published in the early 1960s. This story blends elements of humor and childlike curiosity as it follows a young boy's imaginative interpretations of the world around him, particularly related to the concept of electrical shorts. The narrative reflects on the innocence of childhood and the unique ways kids process and understand the information they encounter. The story centers around little Oley, a four-year-old boy who has a knack for misunderstanding complex adult concepts, particularly the idea of electrical shorts. As Oley innocently experiments with various items, including a brightly colored juice and an ice pick, he connects them with his perception of "shorts," illustrating his amusing interpretations of adult dialogue and situations. The climax occurs when Oley, trying to make sense of what he's learned, causes a short circuit in an electrical cable while attempting to help his father. This unintentional act leads to a humorous yet precarious situation, showcasing Oley's development and the adults’ bewildered reactions as they contend with his unique perspective on the world.
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