Ella Wheeler Wilcox's 'Poems of Progress and New Thought Pastels' offers an eloquent and poignant exploration of the human condition through verse. The collection is immersed in the New Thought philosophy, which emphasizes affirmative thinking, self-healing, and the power of the mind. Wilcox's literary style combines simplicity with an impassioned rhythmic sense, making her works both accessible and emotionally resonant. Contextually, her poetry reflects the progressive era's optimism and the burgeoning spiritual movement that sought to transcend traditional religious confines. The poems within this anthology continue to ripple through the streams of American poetry, illuminating the zeitgeist of the late 19th and early 20th centuries with a remarkable prescience and vibrancy. As a writer, Ella Wheeler Wilcox was profoundly influenced by the philosophical and societal shifts of her day. Her verses radiate her personal belief in positivity and the transformative potential of individual thought. Wilcox's life and experiences, infused with her conviction in New Thought principles, informed her writing's thematic and ideological breadth. This approach allows her poetry to act as a beacon for those traversing the tumultuous tides of change that characterized her era, and it lends her work an enduring quality that resonates with present-day readers. 'Poems of Progress and New Thought Pastels' is highly recommended for those intrigued by the intersection of literature and spiritual philosophy. Wilcox's poetry serves as both a testament to an era of profound change and a timeless guide to personal resilience and empowerment. Readers seeking inspiration, historical literary context, or simply the pleasure of rhythmic, heartfelt poetry will find this collection to be a treasure trove of enlightenment and enjoyment.