“Once upon a midnight dreary, while I pondered, weak and weary, over many a quaint and curious volume of forgotten lore, While I nodded, nearly napping, suddenly there came a tapping as of someone gently rapping, rapping at my chamber door.” – Edgar Allan Poe.
Poe published this unforgettable poem in 1845. Using words as his tools, he shaped stories and poetry as a potter uses clay to shape a figure. Even the sound of the words, when spoken, send shivers up the spine.
I like to cause a few shivers too, with the mysteries I write, but I also like to have happy endings and the coziness of friends, coffee, and warmth. Not so with Mr. Poe.
We all have words at our disposal. Sometimes they create gulfs that can never be breached, but they also build bridges.
Words are lasting. They may be written or spoken briefly, but their staying power is great. Although The Raven was published almost 200 years ago, it still establishes a mood and causes a shiver or two to run down the spine. Poe gave a gift to the world with his writings and I’m so glad he did.
At present, my husband is reading a collection of short stories by Poe.
Yes, cozies are definitely different. Always love to read your posts.
P.S. I loved the Tell-Tale Heart.
Thanks for writing, Susan. Poe was such a master of words. Nobody like him. Thanks for reading my posts. By the way, I enjoy your cozy mysteries.