James Allen was young when his father was robbed and murdered. He left school and worked to support his family after their loss. When Allen was 38 he became intrigued in writing. After moving to Ilfracombe, Devon, England he wrote for nine years. He produced 19 of his works. James Allen’s writings express great power and illustrate personal problems. Though Allen never became famous or wealthy for his works they still influence people to this day (James Allen1). One may believe James Allen’s quote “If your real desire is to do good, there is no need to wait for money before you do it.” was intended to indicate his family 's struggle with money after his father 's death and his success with writing. His quote “If your real desire is to do