E. V. Lucas & Charles L. Graves 
The War of the Wenuses 

In the satirical anthology ‘The War of the Wenuses’, editors E. V. Lucas and Charles L. Graves orchestrate a vibrant mosaic of parody and pastiche, serving as an homage and critique to the late Victorian scientific romances. The collection brims with a diverse array of stylistic flourishes, weaving together elements of humor, irony, and speculative fiction to explore the cultural and societal preoccupations of its time. The anthology stands out for its adept mimicry and playful subversion of well-known works, offering readers a layered and multifaceted literary experience that challenges and entertains in equal measure. The contributing editors, both prominent figures in the literary scene of early 20th-century England, bring to the table a rich background in journalism and literature. Their collective endeavor in ‘The War of the Wenuses’ reflects a keen engagement with the literary currents and cultural dialogues of the Edwardian era, marking a significant contribution to the parodic tradition. Through their collaborative efforts, Lucas and Graves encapsulate the zeitgeist of their age, offering insightful commentary on the scientific enthusiasms and imperialist undertones prevalent in the literature of their day. ‘The War of the Wenuses’ is a must-read for aficionados of satire and speculative fiction, providing a unique lens through which to explore the intersection of culture, politics, and literature at the turn of the 20th century. This anthology invites readers on a richly rewarding journey through its cleverly crafted narratives, making it an invaluable addition to the libraries of those seeking to deepen their understanding of the period’s literary landscape. Lucas and Graves’ work encourages a dialogue between past and present, presenting an opportunity to reflect on how humor and critique can traverse time to illuminate our understanding of cultural dynamics.

About the author

Edward Verrall Lucas, CH (1868–1938), was an esteemed English writer, known for his multifaceted literary contributions, which encompassed essays, biographies, and novels. Lucas’ erudition and wit carved a distinctive voice in the late Victorian and early 20th-century English literature. Among his notable works is the satirical science fiction novel ‘The War of the Wenuses’ (1898), co-authored with Charles Langbridge Morgan, which serves as a pastiche of H.G. Wells’ ‘The War of the Worlds’. His work often reflected a genial and whimsy style, engaging readers with its distinctive blend of humor and insight. Lucas’ essays, typified by engaging narration and humanism, remain a testament to his craftsmanship as a writer. His tenure as an editor at Methuen and at the humorous magazine ‘Punch’ fortified his influence in the literary circuit. As a biographer, his portraits of Charles Lamb and others contributed significantly to English literary scholarship. Lucas’ legacy endures in his prolific output, including over 100 books, and in the enduring popularity of his children’s book ‘Anne’s Terrible Good Nature’ and his travel writings that capture the charm of the English landscape. Academics continue to study Lucas’ impact on early 20th-century literature as both a luminary and a commentator of his times.