Mellonta Tauta by Edgar Allan Poe (1849): A Review

Title: Mellonta Tauta

Author: Edgar Allan Poe

Publication Year: 1849, February

Pages: 19

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Genre: Futuristic, Science Fiction, Satire

Source: eBook & audiobook @storytel.tr

Opening Sentence: NOW, my dear friend — now, for your sins, you are to suffer the infliction of a long gossiping letter.

First of all, "Mellonta Tauta" means "things of the future." The story revolves around a woman named Pundita in the distant future (2848 AD), who finds herself overwhelmed by boredom while traveling in a high-speed balloon.

The narrative is presented as Pundita's daily diaries, where she shares her experiences in the balloon along with her philosophical thoughts to entertain herself and bore the reader to death! The writing is satirical and humorous, offering insights on ancient philosophy, science, politics, geography, and much more. Interestingly, Americca is depicted as a relic of ancient and forgotten history; the continent is now known as Kanadaw. In this future, Kanawdians have taken over the entire continent, leading to this new civilization.

I found it hilarious when she discusses the ancient history of America and its political systems, as they all sound strikingly familiar! Regarding this so-called ancient history and the long-lost America, she remarks, “democracy is a very admirable form of government—for dogs.” Poe was a visionary! He also imagined high-speed trains and balloons, making him the original Jules Verne!

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