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Classic Literature

The Light Machine: Classic Book Guide and Free Edition

The Light Machine: author and translator credits, catalogue synopsis, subjects and links to the Gutenberg reading formats.

Published by Pop Culture Files••2 min read•Automatically generated · review not guaranteed
AI-generated editorial illustration — not a photograph of the subject
AI-generated editorial illustration — not a photograph of the subject

The Light Machine is catalogued by Project Gutenberg with author credits for Cummings, Ray (1887–1957).

Catalogue synopsis

Project Gutenberg supplies this automated synopsis of the opening text:

"The Light Machine" by Ray Cummings is a science fiction short story published in the early 20th century. The narrative revolves around a peculiar invention known as the "Light Machine," which has the extraordinary capability to extract and project images from light, allowing individuals to glimpse into the past. The story delves into themes of science, the nature of light, and the interplay between observation and reality, effectively blending scientific concepts with imaginative storytelling. The plot centers on Tubby, a skeptical man who initially dismisses claims about the speed of light. His life takes an intriguing turn when he encounters Professor Obadiah Oats, a quirky scientist who has invented the Light Machine. With Tubby's help, the professor aims to demonstrate how light can carry images from the past. The story climaxes as Tubby watches a vivid projection of the Burning of Rome, allowing him to witness historical events as they happened. Ultimately, the narrative plays with the concepts of time, perception, and the limitations of human understanding, all while providing a thought-provoking and entertaining scientific adventure.

Book and edition facts

  • Title: The Light Machine
  • Author credits: Cummings, Ray (1887–1957)
  • Catalogue language: English

Catalogue subjects

  • Light -- Fiction
  • Maguire, Tubby (Fictitious character) -- Fiction
  • Science fiction
  • Short stories

Gutenberg collections

  • Category: Science-Fiction & Fantasy
  • Category: Short Stories

Read this edition

View the complete Gutenberg catalogue record. Project Gutenberg identifies this edition as public domain in the United States; that designation does not establish its copyright status in every country.

Source notes

Catalogue metadata is public domain and is supplied through Gutendex, which imports Gutenberg's machine-readable catalogue. The automated synopsis is source-supplied, not an independently verified review. Author dates above describe the credited people; no ebook release date is presented as the book's original publication date.

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