Plot summary, “The Door in the Wall” by H.G. Wells in 4 Minutes - Book Review
2"The Door in the Wall" is a short story written by H.G. Wells, the famous British author best known for his science fiction works. The story was first published in 1911 as part of a collection titled "The Door in the Wall, and Other Stories."
The narrative centers around a man named Lionel Wallace, who recounts his extraordinary and deeply personal experience to a close friend. As a successful politician and government official, Wallace appears to have a promising and fulfilling life. However, he reveals that he had encountered a life-changing event during his childhood that has haunted him ever since.
As a young boy, Lionel discovers a hidden green door in a wall near his family's home. Upon opening the door, he finds himself in a wondrous, enchanting garden of extraordinary beauty and magic. This secret garden becomes a place of solace and wonder for Lionel, where he can escape from the pressures of the world and immerse himself in a realm of delight and imagination.
In the garden, Lionel meets a girl named Jane, who becomes his guide and companion. She seems to possess a serene and ethereal quality and introduces Lionel to the wonders of the garden. The experiences within the hidden world have a profound impact on Lionel, inspiring him to create art and music and instilling in him a sense of belonging and purpose.
However, as Lionel grows older and becomes more engrossed in the responsibilities of adulthood, he finds it increasingly difficult to access the door and the magic of the garden. The pressures of the world outside the wall prevent him from returning to the place that brought him so much happiness and inspiration. The memory of the garden and the longing for that magical place haunt him throughout his life.
"The Door in the Wall" is not a traditional science fiction tale like many of H.G. Wells' other works. Instead, it is a poignant and introspective story that explores themes of nostalgia, loss, and the fleeting nature of beauty and joy. It delves into the human desire for escape and the struggle to find a sense of belonging and purpose in a world often filled with challenges and responsibilities.
The story has been widely acclaimed for its emotional depth and beautiful prose, making it one of H.G. Wells' enduring and thought-provoking pieces of literature.