Mr. Wells’ Clarion Call

Northern Advocate, 30 March 1938, Page 2

Mr. Wells’ Clarion Call

"WORLD BRAIN.” (By, H. G. Wells. Methven 3/6). Any book from the pen of Mr. H. G. Wells is assured os a welcome from a wide circle of readers; though a good many who would not miss “a new Wells,” disagree with his arguments. Why do they read him? Because no writer of to-day, in things social and reconstructive, is more stimulating. He writes with a passionate social 'sincerity that makes the clever trifling of Bernard Shaw look small. Both are outstanding literary figures, but the smart persiflage of Shaw tends to cynicism while the social passion of Wells tends to inspire a new crusade. No modem winter is better acquainted with what science has done. Wells has celebrated its achievements with wide knowledge and generous appreciation. Some of his works arc remarkable for his uncanny anticipation of scientific developments. But, in this book, he says plainly, it is not enough. “Mental and moral adaptation is lagging dreadfully behind the change in our conditions.”

Clarion Call. This book is a clarion call to set in order our national, house of education. Education must have a broader basis, wider frontiers and vastly larger ideals. An educational Renaissance is needed. Indeed it is imperative if civilisation is to be saved. One closes the book with a feeling that there is a bewildering procession of ideas, but all moving towards a clearly defined end. Or, with a feeling that wonderful things have been seen in a dream journey along a road where massive encyclopaedias are set up as milestones, and everyone is advancing —none reti’eating. It is very hopeful and heartening. But we all have to live, and that’s probably the Instalment Man knocking at the door on an evening call for the radio payment. We are a hard people to -wake up. We like to think of what the world might but we love our ruts, and want to die in them. “Leave it to George.” But how can he do it alone?