Why Jules Verne Still Matters: The Classic Author Who Predicted Tomorrow

The Man Who Turned Science into Adventure

Born in 1828 in Nantes, France—a bustling port city—Jules Verne grew up surrounded by ships, travellers, and stories of distant lands. The atmosphere of maritime adventure deeply influenced his imagination. Although he initially studied law, Verne gravitated toward literature and theatre, eventually finding his voice in adventure fiction grounded in scientific speculation.

What made Verne unique was his ability to blend factual research with boundless imagination. Unlike fantasy writers who relied solely on magic or mythology, Verne rooted his tales in emerging scientific knowledge. He read widely about engineering, geography, and technological advancements, weaving them seamlessly into thrilling narratives. This approach gave his stories credibility, allowing readers to believe that the impossible might someday become real.

Predicting Technologies Before Their Time

Perhaps the most astonishing aspect of Verne’s legacy is his uncanny ability to anticipate future inventions. His 1870 novel, Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea, introduced readers to Captain Nemo’s submarine, the Nautilus—an advanced underwater vessel capable of long-term ocean exploration. At a time when submarines were still primitive experiments, Verne envisioned a fully functional underwater world, complete with electric lighting and sophisticated navigation systems.

Similarly, in From the Earth to the Moon (1865), Verne imagined humans travelling to the moon decades before the Apollo missions made it possible. He described space capsules, launch sites, and even the physical challenges of space travel with striking accuracy. Many of his imagined technologies—from scuba gear and helicopters to modern video communication—would later become realities, earning him the reputation of a literary prophet.

However, Verne’s genius was not merely in predicting inventions but in understanding how technological progress would reshape human experience. He explored the relationship between innovation and curiosity, asking readers to consider how science could expand humanity’s horizons while also posing ethical and philosophical questions.

Celebrating Exploration and Human Curiosity

At the heart of Verne’s stories lies an enduring fascination with exploration. Novels like Around the World in Eighty Days capture the excitement of travel during a time when global connectivity was still emerging. The protagonist, Phileas Fogg, undertakes an extraordinary journey across continents, demonstrating how determination and ingenuity can overcome seemingly impossible challenges.

Verne’s work celebrates the human urge to discover the unknown—whether it lies beneath the ocean, deep within the earth, or across the vastness of space. This theme continues to resonate in a modern world driven by scientific discovery, from deep-sea research to interplanetary missions. His stories remind us that progress begins with curiosity and courage.

Inspiring Generations of Scientists and Dreamers

Jules Verne’s influence extends far beyond literature. Many scientists, engineers, and explorers have cited his work as an early inspiration. Innovators who helped shape aviation, oceanography, and space exploration often grew up reading Verne’s novels. His ability to imagine technological breakthroughs encouraged readers to pursue careers in science and engineering, demonstrating the profound impact storytelling can have on real-world innovation.

In many ways, Verne helped popularise science itself. He made complex ideas accessible and exciting, showing readers that scientific discovery was not confined to laboratories but was a grand, adventurous pursuit open to anyone willing to dream.

The Enduring Relevance of Verne’s Themes

While Verne is frequently praised for his technological foresight, his deeper relevance lies in the themes that underpin his narratives. His stories often explore the tension between progress and responsibility. Characters such as Captain Nemo embody both brilliance and moral complexity, highlighting how technological power can be used for liberation or destruction.

Verne also examined the spirit of global interconnectedness long before globalisation became a defining feature of modern life. His novels depicted a world linked by travel, communication, and shared scientific endeavour, offering a hopeful vision of international cooperation.

Furthermore, Verne’s works celebrate perseverance, intellectual curiosity, and the belief that knowledge can transform society. These values remain as significant today as they were in the nineteenth century, particularly in an era grappling with rapid technological advancement and environmental challenges.

Why Modern Readers Still Turn to Verne

In a world dominated by digital technology and instant communication, Jules Verne’s novels continue to captivate readers because they evoke a sense of wonder that transcends time. His stories offer escapism while also encouraging reflection on humanity’s relationship with science and nature. They remind us that innovation begins not with machines but with imagination.

Modern readers also find comfort in Verne’s optimism. Despite acknowledging the dangers of unchecked progress, he believed deeply in humanity’s ability to learn, adapt, and explore responsibly. This hopeful perspective feels especially relevant in today’s uncertain technological landscape.

Additionally, Verne’s storytelling remains remarkably engaging. His vivid descriptions, dynamic characters, and fast-paced adventures ensure that his works are not merely historical curiosities but living, breathing narratives that continue to inspire.

From Literature to Pop Culture: Verne’s Stories on Screen

Jules Verne’s imagination has travelled far beyond the printed page, finding new life in cinema and popular culture. His richly visual storytelling and fascination with science made his novels natural candidates for adaptation, allowing each generation to rediscover his ideas through film.

One of the most recognisable modern adaptations is Journey to the Center of the Earth (2008), starring Brendan Fraser. Loosely inspired by Verne’s 1864 novel, the film updates the original tale with contemporary technology and special effects while preserving its core spirit of scientific curiosity and daring exploration. Its sequel, Journey 2: The Mysterious Island (2012), draws from Verne’s The Mysterious Island, blending adventure, fantasy, and discovery for a new audience.

Verne’s cinematic legacy dates back even further. Disney’s Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea (1954) remains a landmark in science-fiction cinema, shaping how audiences imagined underwater exploration and Captain Nemo’s iconic Nautilus. Around the World in Eighty Days has also seen multiple adaptations, from the Oscar-winning 1956 film to the 2004 version starring Jackie Chan.

Beyond direct adaptations, Verne’s influence echoes across modern science fiction, proving that his visions continue to shape how stories of exploration are told today.

A Legacy That Continues to Shape Tomorrow

Jules Verne did more than write adventure novels—he redefined how literature could interact with science and technology. By transforming speculative ideas into compelling stories, he helped humanity imagine a future filled with discovery and possibility. His works serve as a reminder that progress often begins in the realm of imagination before finding its way into reality.

As humanity ventures deeper into space, explores the mysteries of the oceans, and pushes the boundaries of technological innovation, Verne’s legacy feels more relevant than ever. He taught readers that the future is not something to fear but something to dream about, question, and ultimately create.

More than a century later, Jules Verne still matters because he captured the timeless truth that every great discovery begins with a story—and sometimes, those stories have the power to change the world.

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