H. G. Wells 
In the Modern Vein 

Containing loosely autobiographical elements, ‘In the Modern Vein’ is a short story detailing the romantic pursuits of the poet, Aubrey Vair. The crux of the tale focuses on Vair’s brief, platonic affair with the enigmatic Miss Smith. Will Vair return to his wife or elope with his new love? Wells allows us to experience the turmoil Vair endures in touching and unexpected detail. Given the rumours of his numerous affairs in real-life, could this be the author is trying to lay old ghosts to rest?-