Clever Quote by H.G. Wells

“I think that at that time none of us quite believed in the Time Machine. The fact is, the Time Traveler was one of those men who are too clever to be believed: you never felt that you saw all round him; you always suspected some subtle reserve, some ingenuity in ambush, behind his lucid frankness…” quote by H.G. Wells — Download Open image

““I think that at that time none of us quite believed in the Time Machine. The fact is, the Time Traveler was one of those men who are too clever to be believed: you never felt that you saw all round him; you always suspected some subtle reserve, some ingenuity in ambush, behind his lucid frankness. Had Filby shown the model and explained the matter in the Time Traveller's words, we should have shown him far less skepticism. For we should have perceived his motives; a pork butcher could understand Filby.””

H.G. Wells

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Time Machine, 1895

The Time Traveller is seen as too clever, leading to skepticism; understanding motives would reduce doubt.

In simple terms: Cleverness breeds skepticism; understanding motives helps.

Key Takeaway

Seek motive behind brilliance.

Themes

science fiction skepticism motivation

Mood

critical intellectual

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

literary critique
philosophical debate

Key Concepts

time travel character analysis

Questions to Reflect On

What makes a character believable?
How does skepticism shape storytelling?

A Different Perspective

Over‑analysis can hinder narrative flow.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 2.9 out of 5 (9 ratings)

Believed Time Clever Computers Disbelief Far Skepticism Intelligence Skepticism Perceived Time machine Time Traveler Time Traveller

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