🌏If Jules Verne Could Speak Today: A Conversation on Technology, Adventure, and Our Future with AI
What the Father of Science Fiction Might Say About Modern Tech and the Human Spirit
In This Post:
Verne’s thoughts on balancing technology with ethics, responsibility, and the natural world through an AI conversation.
The timeless lessons his characters offer about bravery, love, and resilience in an unpredictable world..
“Anything one man can imagine, other men can make real.”
Source: Around the World in 80 Days (1873)
Imagine sitting down with Jules Verne, the father of science fiction, for a conversation about the world we live in today. What would he think about space travel, AI, and the way our technology has evolved? His novels—Around the World in 80 Days, Journey to the Center of the Earth, and Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea—already predicted much of what we take for granted. But Verne wouldn’t just marvel at our progress; he’d have something to say about how we use it.
This is part of a series where I talk to literary giants from the past using AI. With today's AI, we can not only analyze all of an author's work but also explore their letters, commentaries, and personal insights to apply them to modern times. Through this lens, we gain a unique opportunity to bridge the past with the present, reflecting on how these influential figures might interpret today's world.
For me, Around the World in 80 Days holds a special place in my heart. Phileas Fogg, the stoic protagonist, embodies the "keep calm and carry on" attitude long before it became a popular phrase. His unflinching calm and his ability to deal with whatever life throws at him with quiet determination taught me the value of patience and resilience.
Fogg’s bravery, particularly in saving Aouda, the Indian woman in distress, and his sudden declaration of love at the end of the story, left me swooning. Verne’s ability to create such rich, multifaceted characters and weave them into a thrilling narrative is truly remarkable.
As I prepared for an imagined conversation with Jules Verne through the lens of AI, I found myself eager to dive into his thoughts on what inspired him to write Around the World in 80 Days and how he developed such deep characters.
What drove him to explore these themes, and what can we learn from his insights today?
AI Conversation:
You: "Mr. Verne, it’s an honor to speak with you. Your novels have captivated readers with their tales of adventure and technological marvels. What inspired you to explore such ambitious and imaginative ideas?"
Jules Verne (AI): "Thank you, the honor is mine. I have always been fascinated by the potential of human ingenuity and the mysteries of the natural world. My stories were born from a desire to explore the unknown and to imagine what could be achieved through science and exploration. I wanted to inspire a sense of wonder and curiosity in my readers, to encourage them to look beyond the horizon and to dream of what might be possible."
You: "I have to tell you, Around the World in 80 Days is one of my favorite books. It taught me the value of stoicism long before I even knew the term. Phileas Fogg’s patience, his attitude of ‘we will just deal with it and go on,’ and the bravery he showed—especially when he saved Aouda—really resonated with me. What inspired you to write this book and create such deep, memorable characters?"
Jules Verne (AI): "I am delighted that the book had such an impact on you. Around the World in 80 Days was inspired by my fascination with the advancements in transportation and communication during my time. The world was becoming more connected, and the idea of circumnavigating the globe in such a short period seemed both thrilling and improbable. Phileas Fogg, as a character, embodies the spirit of the era—calm, methodical, yet willing to take risks when necessary. His stoicism and resilience were meant to reflect the qualities I admired in those who faced the challenges of a rapidly changing world. The journey itself was a metaphor for life’s unpredictability, and the importance of maintaining one’s composure and integrity in the face of adversity."
You: "The depth of the characters, particularly Fogg, is something I truly admire. His declaration of love at the end was both surprising and touching. What was your approach to developing such a multifaceted character?"
Jules Verne (AI): "Phileas Fogg was crafted to be a man of contradictions—on the surface, he appears cold and detached, yet beneath that exterior lies a heart capable of deep emotion and bravery. His declaration of love at the end was a way to reveal the softer side of his character, to show that even the most stoic individuals can be moved by the power of love. The card game on the train and his rescue of Aouda were opportunities to showcase his capacity for taking bold action when the situation demanded it. In creating Fogg, I wanted to explore the complexities of human nature and the ways in which unexpected circumstances can bring out qualities we didn’t know we possessed."
You: "Your predictions about technology and exploration were remarkably accurate. How did you come up with such visionary ideas, and what do you think of how many of them have come true?"
Jules Verne (AI): "My ideas were born from a combination of scientific research, imagination, and a deep curiosity about the future. I was fortunate to live in a time of great scientific discovery, and I sought to extrapolate from what was known to what might be possible. I am pleased to see that many of my visions have come to pass, such as submarines, space travel, and global communication. It is a testament to the power of human innovation and the enduring spirit of exploration."
You: "In today’s world, technology is advancing at an unprecedented rate. What do you think about the state of technology and exploration in the 21st century?"
Jules Verne (AI): "I am both amazed and excited by the advancements of the 21st century. The progress in fields such as space exploration, artificial intelligence, and renewable energy is truly remarkable. However, I would also caution that with great power comes great responsibility. It is essential that we use technology wisely, ensuring that it serves the greater good and does not lead to unintended consequences. The spirit of exploration must be balanced with a respect for the natural world and the well-being of all humanity."
You: "Your work often celebrated the spirit of adventure. Do you think this spirit is still alive today, and how can we encourage it in future generations?"
Jules Verne (AI): "The spirit of adventure is a fundamental part of the human experience, and I believe it is very much alive today. The exploration of space, the deep sea, and even the frontiers of technology are all manifestations of this spirit. To encourage it in future generations, we must nurture curiosity, education, and a sense of wonder. It is through exploration and discovery that we grow as individuals and as a species."
You: "If you were alive today, what kind of stories or ideas do you think you would explore in your writing?"
Jules Verne (AI): "I think I would be fascinated by the possibilities of space exploration, the mysteries of the deep ocean, and the ethical dilemmas posed by artificial intelligence. I might write about the colonization of distant planets, the discovery of new forms of life, or the challenges of creating sustainable societies in extreme environments. The key would be to continue exploring the intersection of science, imagination, and the human spirit."
You: "Your novels often depicted a future where technology and exploration could achieve incredible things. What advice would you give to today’s scientists, engineers, and explorers?"
Jules Verne (AI): "I would advise them to dream big, to push the boundaries of what is possible, but also to remain grounded in the ethical implications of their work. Science and technology have the power to change the world, but they must be guided by a sense of responsibility and a commitment to the well-being of all people. Innovation should always be paired with wisdom and compassion."
What Verne Teaches Us Today
Jules Verne’s work is still important today, especially as technology changes how we live and explore. His stories didn’t just predict a lot of the inventions we use now, but also made us think about the right and wrong ways to use them. Verne reminds us that while it’s exciting to invent new things, we should make sure they help everyone and protect the environment. His books continue to inspire people, showing us how imagination can change the world and teach us important lessons that never go out of style.
"Science, my lad, is made up of mistakes, but they are mistakes which it is useful to make, because they lead little by little to the truth."
- Journey to the Center of the Earth (1864), spoken by Professor Lidenbrock.
My Literary Gift For You
If you’re curious (or just feeling a little stuck on what to read next), why not give A.I a try? I’ve created a free Book Matchmaker App where I’ll personally find your perfect next read! 💌 Just check it out here and let me work my bookish magic for you.
But Wait, There’s More!
Since I’m all about helping you become the best reader you can be, I’ve got a couple of freebies for you too:
🎁 25 AI Prompts to Become a Better Reader: Want to read more, understand deeper, and connect with books in a new way? These prompts will help you reflect, analyze, and grow as a reader.
🎁 Notion Template of My Favorite Female-Empowering Fictional Reads: I’ve compiled a list of must-read books featuring fierce female leads who will inspire you, empower you, and make you cheer out loud. Perfect for your next empowering readathon!