I have been a Poe fan since my first exposure to the Pit and the Pendulum in ninth grade, although it was my college career that sealed the deal. In my intro to Poetry class at EWU, we delved more deeply into the devices Poe used and his theory behind good writing. With that foundation, I am even more receptive to enjoying his works.
I had the privilege of working with both The Tell Tale Heart and The Raven in my placement last quarter, the middle schoolers really got into The Tell Tale Heart. They were a little more reluctant about The Raven till I exposed them to a YouTube video with Jamel Earl Jones as the narrator and the Simpson’s acting it out.
Fall is always an ideal time to use Poe in curriculum, since many of his works are in a setting of cold and decay… which supports the declining progression of several of his poems and stories. In my opinion he is the king of tone, whether it has to do with foreshadowing or changing the tone within the piece. Despite his personality quirks, his dedication and passion for writing is inspiring. However, his quirks and conspiracy theories surrounding his death make him intriguing as an author. Poe is so dynamic, he can be used to teach literary devices and connections to human nature.
Of all the works featured by my classmates, The Bells is the only one that was new to me. Because Poe was SO invested in his work, I wonder if we did him a disservice by publishing it after his death. I would hate for us to read something of his before he was ready to release it. As I read it, I appreciate the genius of transforming bells from symbols of joy and hope to the complete opposite of doom and despair.
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