Hashnu O Hara

William Walker Atkinson (1862–1932) was a prolific American author and a significant figure in the New Thought movement. He began his career in business and law, but a period of physical and financial hardship led him to discover and embrace the principles of New Thought and suggestive therapeutics. This experience profoundly shaped his later work.

Atkinson became a key collaborator with Dr. Herbert A. Parkyn, contributing significantly to Parkyn's magazine "Suggestion." He played a crucial role in disseminating New Thought ideas, translating complex metaphysical concepts into accessible language. His early writings, such as "A Series of Lessons in Personal Magnetism," laid the groundwork for his extensive literary output. He also held positions at Parkyn's University of Psychic Science and edited "New Thought" magazine, solidifying his prominence in the field.

Throughout his career, Atkinson authored an estimated 100 books, often under various pseudonyms, exploring themes of mental control, psychic influence, and personal power. His work remained influential and in print for decades. Despite his success, his publishing activities, particularly through "Advanced Thought Publishing Company" and "Yogi Publishing Company," faced scrutiny from the U.S. Post Office Department regarding alleged misleading advertising.

Born in Baltimore in 1862, William Walker Atkinson initially pursued careers in business and law. After achieving success as an attorney, he experienced a severe physical and mental breakdown, coupled with financial ruin. Seeking recovery, he discovered suggestive therapeutics and the principles of New Thought around 1900. He credited these ideas with restoring his health, mental clarity, and financial stability, marking a pivotal shift in his life's direction.

In 1900, Atkinson sought treatment from Dr. Herbert A. Parkyn, a proponent of suggestive therapeutics in Chicago. After recovering, Atkinson became deeply involved with Parkyn's work, contributing unsigned articles to the magazine "Suggestion." His legal background and writing skills were instrumental in translating Parkyn's methods into a broader metaphysical context, making them accessible to the New Thought audience. This collaboration shaped Atkinson's core beliefs and established him as a prominent protégé of Parkyn.

Atkinson's literary output was immense, with an estimated 100 books published in the last 30 years of his life. He frequently employed pseudonyms, publishing under various personas such as Theron Q. Dumont and Yogi Ramacharaka. His publishing ventures, including "Advanced Thought" magazine and associated publishing houses, were central to his prolific career. These platforms allowed him to promote his own works and those of his pseudonymous authors, contributing to his significant influence within the New Thought movement.

Atkinson's first book, "A Series of Lessons in Personal Magnetism," published in 1901, was based on lectures developed with Dr. Parkyn and marked the beginning of his extensive career in metaphysical studies. He also served as the first instructor at Parkyn's University of Psychic Science and edited "New Thought" magazine from 1901 to 1905. His work was recognized in publications like "Who's Who in America," and his books have maintained continuous availability since 1900, underscoring his enduring impact.