The New Revelation

The New Revelation is Arthur Conan Doyle's seminal early work on spiritualism – essentially his public declaration of belief. Written in 1918, this short book outlines Doyle's personal journey from skepticism to conviction that communication with the dead is real. In clear, passionate prose, Doyle describes investigating mediums and witnessing phenomena that shattered his materialist outlook. The "new revelation" he announces is that empirical evidence (through séances, spirit photography, etc.) has proven the soul's survival after death. Doyle addresses the scientific basis of spiritualism, arguing that just as microscopes revealed microbes, so do psychic methods reveal an unseen spiritual reality. He also touches on Christian doctrine, suggesting spiritualism complements and revives true religion by providing direct proof of the afterlife. The tone is missionary: Doyle writes as a doctor might deliver joyous news of a cure for grief. The New Revelation emphasizes the solace this discovery brings to those who lost loved ones in World War I (then recent). Concluding with calls for open-minded inquiry, Doyle effectively lays the foundation for his later spiritualist campaigns. It's a concise, enthusiastic manifesto heralding a dawning era where, as he saw it, faith and science join hands to unveil the continuity of life beyond the veil.

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (1859–1930) was a Scottish author, physician, and spiritualist best known for creating the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes. Born in Edinburgh, he studied medicine at the University of Edinburgh, where his storytelling talent began to emerge alongside his scientific education. Though initially practicing as a doctor, Doyle turned to writing to support himself, eventually achieving worldwide fame with the publication of A Study in Scarlet in 1887. Beyond detective fiction, he explored historical novels, science fiction, and supernatural themes, notably in the Professor Challenger series. A passionate advocate for justice, he was involved in several real-life legal investigations. In his later years, Doyle became deeply involved in spiritualism, dedicating much of his time and writings to life after death. His legacy endures as one of the most influential figures in literary history.