The Obliterated Man by H. G. Wells

In The Obliterated Man, H. G. Wells introduces Egbert Craddock Cummins, a shy, reserved young man who is pressured by his editor to become a drama critic. He’s never attended a play before, and his first experience leaves him bewildered by the exaggerated emotions and theatrical gestures. But discomfort soon turns into something more disturbing.

Personality as Performance

Cummins begins unconsciously mimicking the actors. His speech, movements, and demeanor become theatrical. His fiancée, Delia, notices the change and ends their engagement. The once-genuine young man becomes a parody of himself—a personality “plated over” by the stage, as Wells describes.

Reflection: Who Are We When We Imitate Too Much?

This story raises a timeless question: how much of our identity is real, and how much is performance? In an age of social media, professional personas, and public roles, The Obliterated Man remains strikingly relevant. Can we lose ourselves in the roles we play?