The Coming Race by: Edward George Earle Lytton Bulwer-Lytton (1871)

The Coming Race by Edward Bulwer-Lytton, first published in 1871, is a pioneering work of speculative fiction that delves into themes of power, utopia, and the potential consequences of technological and spiritual advancement. The novel is centered around the discovery of a subterranean world inhabited by the Vril-ya, an advanced race that possesses extraordinary powers derived from a mysterious force known as "Vril." This force allows them to control matter, heal, and even destroy with minimal effort, essentially giving them god-like abilities.

The narrative follows an unnamed protagonist who accidentally discovers this hidden civilization. As he explores their society, he is struck by the stark differences between the Vril-ya and surface-dwelling humans. The Vril-ya are portrayed as highly intelligent, morally superior, and physically imposing beings who have eliminated war, crime, and suffering through their mastery of Vril. However, the protagonist also realizes the potential threat they pose to humanity, should they ever choose to emerge from their subterranean world.

Bulwer-Lytton uses the novel to explore the implications of unchecked power and the ethical dilemmas that come with it. The Vril-ya's society, while seemingly utopian, raises questions about the loss of individuality, the dangers of a homogeneous culture, and the potential for a superior race to dominate others. The concept of Vril itself became influential in various esoteric circles, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, where it was often cited as a source of mystical energy.

The book was initially published anonymously, which added to its mystique and intrigue. Over time, The Coming Race gained recognition as an important precursor to the science fiction genre, influencing later works that explore similar themes of advanced civilizations and the ethical use of power. The novel's blend of adventure, philosophy, and speculative science has ensured its lasting legacy, both in literature and in the realm of esoteric studies.

About the Author:
Edward Bulwer-Lytton (1803-1873) was a notable English novelist, playwright, and politician, renowned for his extensive literary contributions as well as his involvement in various intellectual and esoteric circles. He was born into an aristocratic family and became one of the most popular writers of his time, with works spanning multiple genres, including historical fiction, romance, the supernatural, and early science fiction.

Masonic and Esoteric Affiliations:

Freemasonry:
Edward Bulwer-Lytton was initiated into Freemasonry, becoming an active member of the craft. While specific details about the degrees he achieved or the exact lodges he was associated with are not widely documented, it is known that Freemasonry's symbolic and philosophical teachings had a significant influence on his writing. His novels, such as Zanoni and The Coming Race, reflect themes common in Masonic philosophy, such as the pursuit of hidden knowledge and the moral implications of power.

Rosicrucianism:
Bulwer-Lytton was closely connected to the Rosicrucian movement, an esoteric order that focuses on spiritual enlightenment and the pursuit of mystical knowledge. His novel Zanoni is often cited as a Rosicrucian allegory, exploring the journey of an initiate through trials and transformations leading to higher consciousness and immortality. The philosophical and mystical ideas presented in his works align closely with the Rosicrucian worldview.

Occult Interests:
Bulwer-Lytton had a deep interest in the occult, including mesmerism (a precursor to hypnotism), spiritualism, and other mystical practices that were popular during the Victorian era. His exploration of these subjects is evident in his literature, where he often depicted the supernatural and the unseen forces that influence human life.
Influence on Later Esoteric Movements:

Although Bulwer-Lytton was not directly affiliated with later organizations such as the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, his work had a considerable impact on the members of this and other esoteric societies. His portrayal of secret knowledge and advanced spiritual practices in his novels provided inspiration for many occultists in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Edward Bulwer-Lytton’s literary and esoteric legacy is significant, with his novels continuing to be studied for their symbolic content and insights into the mystical philosophies that captivated him. His influence extends beyond literature into the realms of occultism and mysticism, where his exploration of hidden knowledge and spiritual power remains of enduring interest.