This fascinating literary essay, written by the famous American writer and poet, Edgar Allan Poe, explores the mystique of artistic creation.
By using his renowned poem βThe Ravenβ as an example, Poe explains how good writers write well, concluding that brevity, βunity of effectβ and a logical method are the most important factors.
Taking the reader through the deliberate choices made when writing the poem, the author also discusses theme, setting, sound, and the importance of refrain.
βThe Philosophy of Compositionβ (1846) is a perfect read for literary scholars, writers, and fans of Poe. Edgar Allan Poe (1809β1849) was an American writer, poet, editor and literary critic, best known for his gothic, macabre tales that include βThe Fall of the House of Usherβ, βThe Tell-Tale Heartβ, and βThe Murders in the Rue Morgueβ. One of Americaβs first short story writers, Poe is considered the inventor of detective fiction and a key figure in both horror and science fiction. His work had a profound impact on American and international literature and he was one of the first American writers to earn international recognition. His other notable works include βThe Raven and other Poemβsβ, (1845) βThe Cask of Amontilladoβ, βThe Fall of the House of Usherβ, and βThe Tell-Take Heartβ. With many of his stories adapted for TV and screen, including the gothic 2014 film βStonehearst Asylumβ, starring Kate Beckinsale, Michael Caine, and Ben Kingsley, Poe continues to influence literature, film, and television to this day.