If you have never read anything by Edgar Allan Poe, you are missing out on some of the best Gothic literature America has ever produced. Poe has also been popping up all over pop culture in the recent past, such as being the subject of 2012's The Raven, and a central part of a book trilogy by Kelly Creagh called "Nevermore". As an introduction to Poe's works, here's my list of must-reads (with my personal favorite readings of each):
1. "Annabel Lee"
One of Poe's most famous poems, "Annabel Lee" is a rather heart wrenching tale about a couple parted too soon. It's a short poem, and a good taste of Poe's writing and test to see if you'll enjoy his work. My preferred reading is this one by Matthew Gray Gubler:
2. The Tell-Tale Heart
If you like creepy, this story is for you. Easily Poe's most well-known short story, this is a story of murder and madness. It can leave one wondering "is this really how some people see the world?" My question is: what does it mean if the answer is yes? While I prefer Bela Lugosi's reading, Sir Christopher Lee has a better presence in his reading:
3. The Raven
You probably had to read this poem in high school at least once, it was one of those readings you endured just like Romeo and Juliet. However - like fine wine - literature becomes better with age, and you can get more out of reading it. Here is my favorite reading by Vincent Price:
4. The Masque of The Red Death
Ah, more creepiness. This is also a bit of commentary on the arrogance and decadence of the wealthy in the face of death and poverty among the masses. Again my favorite version is read by Sir Christopher Lee:
5. "Dreams"
This poem is really beautiful, and one of my personal favorites. I can't say much about it without spoiling the entire thing as it's so short:
6. The Fall of The House of Usher
No, not that Usher. This is another story that leaves the reader questioning the boundaries of sanity and madness, but also life and death. The story centers on a man and his sister, who are the last surviving members of the family of Usher. Both are suffering from an unknown illness that runs in their family. I know this is starting to seem like the Christopher Lee show, but he's simply one of the best (and most widely available) readers I've found:
