056 - Chapter LV Take a Pleasant Thought to Bed with You

056 - Chapter LV Take a Pleasant Thought to Bed with You

Author: Orison Swett Marden March 5, 2026 Duration: 18:06
Originally published in 1894, Pushing to the Front is the groundbreaking first book by the esteemed inspirational author, Dr. Orison Swett Marden. This remarkable work is the culmination of years of dedication and creativity, especially poignant after Dr. Marden had to rebuild it from ashes—literally—following a devastating fire that destroyed his five-thousand-plus page manuscript. This book quickly became the most popular personal development guide of its era, earning its place as a timeless classic. Rich with stories of achievement, resilience, and the overcoming of obstacles, it is particularly well-suited for adolescents and young adults. Pushing to the Front inspires readers to embrace integrity, cultivate a strong moral compass, and develop enduring self-discipline, empowering them to step confidently into their potential as leaders.

The story behind Pushing to the Front is as compelling as the lessons within it. This podcast presents the complete, unabridged text of Orison Swett Marden's foundational 1894 work, read aloud for a modern audience. The book itself was born from extraordinary perseverance, as Marden rebuilt his entire five-thousand-plus page manuscript after a fire destroyed it. That same spirit of resilience and ambition fuels every chapter. Listeners will hear timeless principles on cultivating willpower, seizing opportunity, and building an unstoppable character, all drawn from the lives of history's great achievers. While the language carries the distinct cadence of its era, the ideas feel strikingly relevant to today's challenges in business, creative arts, and personal growth. This isn't a commentary or analysis; it's the original text, allowing Marden's own words to provide the guidance. Each episode serves as a direct audio connection to a classic that helped define the self-improvement genre. The narrative weaves together biography, philosophy, and practical advice, arguing that success is less about circumstance and more about the qualities we develop within. For anyone interested in the roots of motivational literature or seeking substantive ideas beyond quick fixes, this podcast offers a deep, contemplative experience. It’s a chance to engage with a pivotal book that has influenced countless readers, presented in its authentic, complete form.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Pushing to the Front
Podcast Episodes
Nightmare Planet-Murray Leinster [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:47:59
"Nightmare Planet" by Murray Leinster invites listeners into a gripping exploration of alien landscapes and the challenges of survival in an unforgiving environment. As humanity grapples with the unknown, the themes of r…
Anarchism and Other Essays-Emma Goldman [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 6:57:07
"Anarchism and Other Essays" by Emma Goldman presents a compelling exploration of anarchist philosophy and critiques of societal norms. Goldman passionately articulates her views on individual freedom, social justice, an…
Hermann and Dorothea-Johann Wolfgang von Goethe [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:29:41
"Hermann and Dorothea" by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe is a poignant narrative that explores themes of love, duty, and the social challenges of its time. Set against the backdrop of a war-torn landscape, the story delves i…
Complete Poetical Works of Edgar Allan Poe-Edgar Allan Poe [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 7:44:15
The "Complete Poetical Works of Edgar Allan Poe" gathers the entirety of Poe's enchanting and often haunting poetry, showcasing his mastery of rhythm, meter, and the exploration of profound themes such as love, death, an…
Vision of Piers the Plowman (Warren translation)-William Langland [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 4:37:50
"Vision of Piers the Plowman," translated by Warren, is a profound allegorical poem by William Langland that explores the complexities of faith, morality, and social justice through a series of dream visions. The narrati…
Dymer-C. S. Lewis [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:02:54
"Dymer" by C. S. Lewis is a profound exploration of the human experience, weaving themes of love, loss, and the quest for meaning into a rich narrative tapestry. This work delves into the complexities of existence and th…
Arcadian Adventures with the Idle Rich-Stephen Leacock [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 6:46:54
"Arcadian Adventures with the Idle Rich" by Stephen Leacock offers a humorous and satirical glimpse into the lives of the wealthy and their amusing escapades. Through witty observations and clever storytelling, Leacock c…
Feminism in Greek Literature-Frederick Adam Wright [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 5:29:09
"Feminism in Greek Literature" by Frederick Adam Wright delves into the representation of women in ancient Greek texts, exploring the nuanced portrayals and the societal implications of these literary works. This insight…
Malachi, from Horae Homileticae-Charles Simeon [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:26:28
"Malachi, from Horae Homileticae-Charles Simeon" delves into the profound insights of the biblical book of Malachi, exploring themes of faith, devotion, and the covenant between God and His people. This work emphasizes t…
Character Building-Booker T. Washington [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 6:38:20
"Character Building-Booker T. Washington" delves into the life and philosophy of Booker T. Washington, emphasizing the importance of character development as a foundation for personal and societal progress. This audioboo…