Having a Wonderful Time, J.G. Ballard: Summary, Analysis & Themes

J.G. Ballard's work, particularly the short story ‘Having a Wonderful Time’ , often goes unappreciated despite its profound insights. This story, part of his 1982 collection Myths of the Near Future , skillfully anticipates elements of twenty-first-century life. Told as a series of postcards from the Canary Islands, it humorously yet critically examines themes of forced leisure and restricted freedom. Summary of Having a Wonderful Time, J.G. Ballard Written in 1978 , ‘Having a Wonderful Time’ is set in a speculative future of 1985, a symbolic year just past George Orwell’s dystopian 1984. The story follows Diana , who writes postcards to a friend back in England while vacationing in Gran Canaria with her husband, Richard . Initially, her notes humorously recount their travel experience and the usual vacation details. However, the couple soon finds their return to Gatwick delayed due to an alleged computer issue. One day extends to another, turning their two-week holiday into an indefi…