Edgar Allan Poe was an American author who lived in the 19th century and is considered to be a pioneer in the field of short stories as well as detective fiction among others. In addition to being one of the most influential writers in the United States during his time, he was also a literary critic and an editor of great repute. Poe attended the University of Virginia but could not complete his education due to a shortage of funds and later on, he failed to become an army cadet at West Point. However, the failure at West Point futher pushed him towards literature and before long he became a celebrated writer. Some of his most notable and successful works include the poem ‘The Raven’ written in 1845, the stories ‘The Tell Tale Heart’ and ‘The Fall of the House of Usher’ among others. It is often stated that Edgar Allen Poe’s works were far ahead of its time and hence it went on to influence the literary landscape for many years to come. Poe was also known as a witty and intelligent man who could deliver killing on-liners with ease and here are some of the choicest quotes by him.
From childhood's hour I have not been. As others were, I have not seen. As others saw, I could not awaken. My heart to joy at the same tone. And all I loved, I loved alone.
I have no faith in human perfectibility. I think that human exertion will have no appreciable effect upon humanity. Man is now only more active - not more happy - nor more wise, than he was 6000 years ago.
Science has not yet taught us if madness is or is not the sublimity of the intelligence.
Edgar Allan Poe
The true genius shudders at incompleteness — imperfection — and usually prefers silence to saying the something which is not everything that should be said.
