Orison Swett Marden (1848–1924) was an influential American inspirational author and a prominent figure in the New Thought movement. He is best known for his writings on personal development, wealth creation, and the cultivation of virtues necessary for a successful life. In 1897, Marden founded Success magazine, a publication dedicated to sharing inspirational stories and practical advice on self-improvement, which served as a major platform for his philosophy of optimism and determination.
Marden's literary career was launched with the publication of his first book, Pushing to the Front, in 1894. The book became an instant best-seller and established him as a leading voice in the early self-help genre. Over his lifetime, Marden was exceptionally prolific, publishing fifty or more books and booklets, averaging about two titles per year. His works consistently emphasized the power of positive thinking, willpower, and moral character in overcoming obstacles and achieving one's goals, reflecting the optimistic spirit of late 19th and early 20th-century America.
