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It is a recognized fact that the work of the world is largely done by neurasthenes. Whether this sentiment is likely to receive wide endorsement or not, the story reported by Dr. Margaret A. Cleaves in The Autobiography of a Neurasthene tells a remarkable tale of success in the active practice of medicine on the part of one who, by reason of weak inheritance, dwelt for years in the dismal shadow of neurasthenia. The incapacitating effect of this most serious handicap to success seems in this case to have been met by an indomitable will; and it is an open question how far the advice, Go thou and do likewise, may really be offered to those of like condition. It seems to make surprising differences in the interference with normal life which this dread disorder induces, whether it attacks one group of activities or emotions, or another. But there can be no doubt that the most courageous persons are the neurasthenics, who accomplish all their ordinary tasks in spite of the terrific, if irrational, fear which obsesses them. It is indeed a notable document that is recorded in this unusual autobiography. Here and there are inconsistencies, both of statement, of attitude, and of grammar; but on the whole the account rings true, even though disguised in the interests of anonymity. Its reading may be recommended as a consolation to nervous invalids, and as a warning to those who by temperament are likely to become so. -The Dial, Volume 48 [1910]

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