Beyond Thirty - Classic Text | Alexandria
First published in 1916 under the title "The Lost Continent," Edgar Rice Burroughs' novella "Beyond Thirty" presents a fascinating alternate history that imagines a world where Europe and Asia have become isolated from the Americas following the First World War. Initially appearing in All-Around Magazine, this lesser-known work by the creator of Tarzan explores themes of civilizational collapse and cultural isolation through a uniquely prescient early 20th-century lens.
Set in the year 2137, the narrative follows Lieutenant Jefferson Turck of the Pan-American Navy, who finds himself stranded in a forbidden zone east of the 30th meridian after his aircraft experiences mechanical troubles. What he discovers is a Europe returned to a primitive state, with the once-great cities of London and Paris reduced to overgrown ruins inhabited by descendants of survivors from the great war. The work notably predates and possibly influenced later post-apocalyptic fiction, offering early examples of themes that would become staples of the genre.
Burroughs wrote this speculative piece during a period of growing international tension, with the United States maintaining a policy of neutrality in the early years of World War I. The story reflects contemporary American isolationist sentiments while simultaneously serving as a cautionary tale about the consequences of complete withdrawal from global affairs. The author's depiction of a regressed European continent provides a stark contrast to his portrayal of a technologically advanced Pan-American confederation, exploring concepts of progress, civilization, and the cyclical nature of human society.
The novella's enduring relevance lies in its exploration of themes that continue to resonate: isolationism versus globalization, the fragility of civilization, and the consequences of technological warfare. While not as widely celebrated as Burroughs' Tarzan or John Carter series, "Beyond Thirty" represents a significant contribution to early science fiction literature, particularly in its pioneering approach to post-apocalyptic storytelling and its prescient commentary on international relations. Modern readers might find particular resonance in its depiction of societies grappling with isolation and the long-term consequences of global conflict.