Edgar Allan Poe
- Born:
- January 19, 1809, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Died:
- October 7, 1849, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Poet, Short-Story Writer, Editor, Literary Critic
Early Life and Education
- Born to actors David Poe Jr. and Elizabeth Arnold Hopkins Poe.
- Orphaned at a young age and taken in by John Allan, a wealthy merchant in Richmond, Virginia.
- Attended the University of Virginia for a brief period but left due to gambling debts.
- Enlisted in the U.S. Army under the name Edgar Perry.
- Received military training and later attended West Point, but was expelled for disciplinary reasons.
Career and Major Achievements
- Began his literary career writing poetry and short stories.
- Worked as an editor for several magazines, including the Southern Literary Messenger, Burton's Gentleman's Magazine, and Graham's Magazine.
- Gained recognition for his critical reviews and his ability to improve the circulation of the magazines he worked for.
- Published significant works that established him as a master of the macabre and the detective story.
Notable Works
- Poetry: "The Raven," "Annabel Lee," "The Bells," "To Helen"
- Short Stories: "The Tell-Tale Heart," "The Fall of the House of Usher," "The Murders in the Rue Morgue," "The Pit and the Pendulum," "The Gold-Bug"
Legacy and Impact
Edgar Allan Poe's influence on literature, particularly in the genres of horror, mystery, and science fiction, is undeniable. His innovative use of language, atmosphere, and psychological depth continues to inspire writers and artists today. Many children seek "edgar allan poe biography yahoo kids" for simplified information, reflecting his enduring relevance across generations.