With the Eyes Shut

‘With the Eyes Shut’ (1898) is a short story by the American author, journalist and political activist, Edward Bellamy, most famous for his socialist, utopian novel ‘Looking Backward: 2000-1887’ (1888).

This prophetic tale tells the story of a man who takes a long train ride to meet some friends. Unable to idle away the hours by reading, he is offered the chance to try out a futuristic phonograph to listen to a book instead, but this new technology has unexpected consequences.

A fast read and an everlasting classic, ‘With the Eyes Shut’ is perfect for fans of Franz Kafka and Albert Camus.







Edward Bellamy (1850 - 1898) was an American author, journalist and political activist, most famous for his socialist utopian novel ‘Looking Backward: 2000-1887’ (1888). It was one of the most successful books published in the United States in the 19th century and influenced a generation of intellectuals. Referenced in many Marxist publications of the time, the book inspired the formation of Nationalist Clubs dedicated to spreading his political ideas.

Bellamy’s other works include the novels ‘Six to One’ (1878), ‘Dr. Heidenhoff's Process’ (1880), ‘Miss Ludington's Sister’ (1885), ‘Equality’ (1897) and ‘The Duke of Stockbridge; a Romance of Shays' Rebellion (1900)’, as well as several short stories, such as ‘The Blindman's World’, ‘To Whom This May Come’, and ‘With the Eyes Shut’.