Pott's Painless Cure

‘Pott's Painless Cure’ (1898) is a short story by the American author, Edward Bellamy, most famous for his socialist and utopian novel ‘Looking Backward: 2000-1887’ (1888).

College student George Hunt is worried that he will have to marry his girlfriend, Annie Gifford, despite not being ready to commit. Eager to find a way to delay her plans he sets about convincing Annie that he is not yet marriage material. But will George’s plans backfire?

Fans of this short story might be interested in Edward Bellamy's other works, such as ‘Hooking Watermelons’, ‘Lost’ and ‘A Love Story Reversed’.






Edward Bellamy (1850 - 1898) was an American author, journalist and political activist. His novel ‘Looking Backward: 2000-1887’ (1888) 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)’.