SHORT BOOK REVIEW: AS A MAN THINKETH
A treatise on power of thought and manifestation. As a Man Thinketh is a unique record of inspirational texts written by James Allen. It was published in 1903.
The book, in its present form, is a compilation of several short chapters. It covers metaphysical aspects of life ranging from thoughts, character, purpose, visions, ideals, etc.
Inspired by biblical texts and teachings, this book is/has been an inspiration for several who are deep in the abyss trying to find themselves and their purpose in life. As he describes the text, it is “a book that will help you to help yourself.” James Allen, considered the father of modern inspirational thought, is as relevant today as he was in the 20th Century
In his first chapter of the literary essay, he dives deep into the connection between thought and how it affects/mould our character. He believes that man is the master of his fate, and says, “Man is made or unmade by himself.” His belief in the power of manifestation; guided by power, love, and intelligence is a transformational force in life. He worships the virtues of patience, practice, and ceaseless importunity.
In the second and third chapters, he delves into the aftermath of effective thought processes on our circumstances, which often enslaves us and our body and health. His utmost faith in the creative power which every human possesses is what he believes lets people grow and break their shells and shine. His clear-cut ideology that “Good thoughts bear good fruits, bad thoughts bad fruit" is a lighthouse in the ocean of predicaments. Circumstances, as he believes, are not fatal but inspirational as they let you see the real you and “reveals him to himself.” He maintains the predominant philosophy of his times: suffering is the irreducible truth of humanity. But it can be ameliorated by our thoughts. In order to countenance his ideas, he also explains the aftermath of corrupt thoughts which, if manifested, can corrupt your reality.
In his fourth chapter, he discusses the importance of finding purpose in life in order to keep moving. As he says, “They who have no central purpose in their life fall an easy prey to petty worries, fears, troubles, and self-pityings, all of which are indicators of weakness, which lead, just as surely as deliberately planned sins.” His insistence on the elimination of doubt and fear connects to the central theme of his treaty: Good thoughts.
In the fifth and sixth chapters, he focuses on the physical and material effects of good thoughts and their manifestations. He maintains, “All that man achieves and all that he fails to achieve is the direct result of his own thoughts.” He also believes in the inherent stoic values of sacrifice and suffering in order to achieve a higher goal and purpose in life. In the logical corollary of his ideas, he also focuses on ideals and moral values, which as per him, are moulded by one’s thoughts. He maintains the position that one becomes what he dreams.
In the last chapter of this treatise, James Allen insists upon the tranquility of the soul and the serenity of life. The calmness of mind, as he says, “is one of the beautiful jewels of wisdom.” Contentment with life and its fruits is necessary for a healthy life. He ends his treatise by saying: “Self-control is strength; Right Thought is mastery; Calmness is power. Say unto your heart, “PEACE, BE STILL!”
This book, in my opinion, though righteous and ideal, serves the purpose of its existence. It was published as a modern inspirational guide for the lost souls wandering in the deep, dark abyss of uncertainty and failures. I would recommend this to everyone searching for inspiration to restart, if stopped, their journey, and enjoy life to the fullest.
