Yes, the author of "The Time Machine," H.G. Wells, did not explicitly explain in the novel why he chose to call the protagonist a "time traveller" instead of a "time machine." However, there are a few possible reasons or interpretations for this choice:
Focus on the character: By referring to the protagonist as the "time traveller," Wells may have intended to emphasize the individual who undertakes the journey through time, rather than the machine itself. This highlights the human element of the story, focusing on the experiences, observations, and interactions of the time traveller as he explores different time periods.
Ambiguity and mystery: Referring to the character as the "time traveller" instead of simply the "user" or "operator" of a time machine adds an air of mystery and intrigue to the narrative. It raises questions about who this person is, how they acquired the ability to travel through time, and what implications it holds for the story.
Narrative perspective: The story is presented as a firsthand account by the time traveller himself. Calling him the "time traveller" rather than the "user of a time machine" adds a personal touch, making it feel like a personal tale being recounted by the protagonist.
Literary convention: It's possible that Wells chose to use the term "time traveller" simply as a literary convention or a creative choice without specific deeper meaning. He may have preferred the term for its sound or its potential to captivate readers' imagination.
While Wells did not provide an explicit explanation for this choice, these interpretations offer some insights into possible reasons behind his decision to use the term "time traveller" in the novel.