He is credited with creating the detective story genre and with transforming the Gothic mystery tale of the Romantic Period. Poe developed a theory that he applied to both his short stories and his poems. ... The theme or plot of the piece is always subordinate to the author's calculated construction of a single, intense mood in the reader's or listener's mind. ... Tell me, tell me, I beg you!... Leave me alone! ...

• Word Count: 2508
• Approx Pages: 10
• Grade Level: High School

I read many of his short stories and realized that his mysterious style of writing greatly appealed to me. ... Many of the characters in Poe's stories seem to be insane. ... (p.11) By the end of the story, he killed his wife in an attempt to kill the cat. ... The distinction between right and wrong in Poe's stories is a very powerful theme, ever present in his horrific accounts. ... As in other Poe stories, biting and mutilation appear. ...

• Word Count: 4324
• Approx Pages: 17
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School