The Door in the Wall, and Other Stories

"The Door in the Wall, and Other Stories" by H. G. Wells is a collection of tales anchored by the initial story of Lionel Wallace, who tells of his youth and a doorway to a magical garden. This memory of immense beauty and connection becomes the central point of Wallace's existence, representing the deep longings that trouble him as he wrestles with the obligations of adulthood. He reflects on his brief retreat into this world, filled with color, contrasting deeply with his ordinary life. Even with his adult achievements, Wallace is burdened by a sense of regret for choosing a conventional path over the enchanted world. The story presents themes of memory, yearning, and the compromises made for responsibility, inviting readers to reflect on the impact of choices and the meaning of true happiness.