Unlocking the Secrets of the Mind: A Review of THE ARCANES by William Walker Atkinson

For more than a hundred years, those in search of esoteric knowledge have sought the writings of William Walker Atkinson to discover answers. Today, his most significant works are collected into a single indispensable volume: THE ARCANES: The Complete Four Books.

This collection isn’t just a book; it’s a journey into the core principles of early 20th-century occultism and New Thought. It bundles four transformative texts:

• The Arcane Teaching
• The Arcane Formulas or Mental Alchemy
• Vril: The Vital Magnetism
• The Mystery of Sex: or Sex Polarization

But does this century-old wisdom hold up today? And is this complete edition the right choice for the modern reader? Let’s explore.

A Glimpse Into the Arcane Teachings

Atkinson, writing under the mantle of a mysterious “Arcane” order, posits a fundamental law of the universe: the Principle of Polarity. This idea—that everything has its opposite (hot/cold, light/dark, mind/matter)—is the thread that ties all four books together. He argues that by understanding and harnessing these polarities through mental focus, we can “alchemize” our circumstances, transmuting failure into success, sickness into health, and poverty into abundance.

The Arcane Formulas serves as the practical workbook for this philosophy, offering specific mental exercises for developing willpower, concentration, and what Atkinson famously termed “Mental Alchemy.”

The Standouts: Vril and The Mystery of Sex

Two books in this collection often generate the most intrigue.

Vril: The Vital Magnetism is Atkinson’s exploration of life force energy—a concept known as Prana in Hinduism, Chi in Taoism, and what many today might recognize as personal magnetism or aura. He provides techniques to accumulate and direct this “Vril” energy for healing, personal influence, and self-mastery. While the term “Vril” has its own peculiar history, the principles align closely with modern energy work and biohacking.

The Mystery of Sex is likely the most controversial by contemporary standards. Atkinson explores gender through the lens of spiritual polarity, framing masculine and feminine as universal energetic principles present in all people. While some of the language and concepts are decidedly dated, the core idea—that the integration of these inner polarities leads to creative power and spiritual advancement—remains a fascinating and valuable perspective for those interested in tantra and sacred sexuality.

Writing Style and Modern Relevance

Don’t expect a breezy, modern self-help book. Atkinson’s style is dense, formal, and philosophical, characteristic of the early 1900s. It demands slow, thoughtful reading and contemplation. This is a text to study, not to skim.

The Verdict: Who Is This Collection For?

THE ARCANES: The Complete Four Books is a five-star resource for a specific audience. It is perfect for:

• Students of Occult History: This is a primary source text that influenced countless New Age and metaphysical movements.
• Practitioners of Mental Science: If you’re serious about manifesting and understanding the “how” behind the law of assumption/attraction, this provides the foundational theory.
• Readers who enjoy classic esoteric works by authors like Manly P. Hall, Neville Goddard, or James Allen.

It might not be for those seeking a quick, light, or scientifically-backed read. The language is archaic, and some philosophical viewpoints are products of their time.

Final Thoughts

William Walker Atkinson’s THE ARCANES is a monumental work. Having all four books in one volume is incredibly valuable for anyone serious about understanding the roots of mental manifestation and energetic practice. It’s a challenging, profound, and ultimately rewarding read that offers timeless wisdom for those willing to decipher its lessons.

If you’re ready to look beyond modern interpretations and go straight to a source, this complete collection is an essential addition to your library.

Ready to unlock the arcane teachings? You can find THE ARCANES: The Complete Four Books by William Walker Atkinson on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other major booksellers.