Poets on Poetry - Edgar Allan Poe

Quotations and Excerpts from Master Poets, Reflecting Upon the Poetic Craft

Linda Ann Nickerson
"Poetry is the rhythmical creation of beauty in words."

"There is an eloquence in true enthusiasm."

"The generous Critic fann'd the Poet's fire,
And taught the world with reason to admire."

Edgar Allan Poe
(1909 - 1949)

Considered one of the creepiest, but most creative, writers of all time, Edgar Allan Poe honed his poetic abilities and made his mark in just 40 years of life. Poe is particularly popular at Halloween time, but real readers will admire his artistic and eerie flair throughout the year.

Poetry does, indeed, revolve around rhythm and beauty. At least, real poetry does. Even free verse may contain measures of meter. "Beauty in words" is the goal for which creative writers strive.

I love to read Poe's linking of enthusiasm and eloquence. After all, passion can be contagious, be it shared in poetry, prose or even politics!

The final quote offers a poetic shot at the literary equivalent of the armchair quarterback, the critic who lampoons or pecks at the poet. By doing so, he only draw attention to the poet's work. To the published writer, even the harshest critic may incite readers to read. Is that all bad?

(Does anyone hear page clicks racking up about now? AC Derater, are you listening?)

Published by Linda Ann Nickerson - Featured Contributor in Lifestyle and Sports

Linda Ann Nickerson brings decades of reporting and a globally minded Midwestern perspective to a host of topics, balancing human interest with history, hard facts and often humor.  View profile

  • Born in Boston, Massachusetts, Edgar Allan Poe was raised by foster parents in Virginia.
  • His parents were both professional actors, who died while he was a toddler.
  • The annual Edgar Awards, given by the Mystery Writers of America, are named for Poe.
Linda Ann Nickerson has written and published many helpful holiday how-to's, humor pieces, poems, and informative articles. Click on her name at the top of this item to view additional content from this prolific author.

9 Comments

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  • bw Frampton2/22/2008

    "The Cask of Amontillado" is, in my opinion, one of the most intelligent works of all time. The story plays on words and contains symbolism on a very high scale. I first read this story fifteen years ago as a junior in high school English Lit.
    The works of EAP opened up a love of literature in me that I thought would never be felt.

  • Brett Davison2/17/2008

    Only two books have universal appeal, the very best and the very worst.

  • Veronica Davidson2/16/2008

    Love your poet's series. Poe is one of my favs.

  • mimpi2/13/2008

    Love Poe and loved this piece.

  • Amy Brantley2/13/2008

    Poe was wonderful.

  • Marsha Coles2/13/2008

    This has been my favorite poet since I first read "The Raven". Excellent job!

  • Rodney Southern2/13/2008

    outstanding. Edgar Allan Poe is one of my favorites

  • Girl Gone Fishing2/13/2008

    Great article. I love Edgar!

  • Lenora Murdock2/13/2008

    Very astute. Loved the piece.

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