Rating: 
Summary: In the Shadow of Rufus W. Griswold...
Review: Though beautifully done in many ways, I feel that this book should have been entitled: IN THE SHADOW OF RUFUS W. GRISWOLD. Just two days after Poe's death, Griswold, his bitter rival, wrote his "Obituary", and later "Memoir", in his edition of Poe's works, in 1850. "His abusive and slanderous characterization of Poe became the unofficial biographical record for the 19th Century"...(Poe Encyclopedia, 1997). It is obvious that it still seems to be continued in the defamation of Poe's character to this day, as is, I feel portrayed by the storyline in this book.Having been a Poe scholar for years, I'm disappointed that the effort used to create this book didn't focus more on his creative abilities, showing his tremendous talent. He gave us the detective genre. He was a fierce, but truthful critic and editor. Just check out a chronology of his works. It's obvious that he did more in his 40 years, than just sit around getting drunk, and seducing his aunt. His gentle side is, of course, spoken of in the countless letters, memoirs and testimonies written by his friends and loved ones during his life, and especially after his death, when his defenders tried to dispel Griswold's lies. I am very impressed with the graphics, art work and photography that was created in this book. My only objection is the inaccurate information regarding his life. I hate misrepresentation. (Think of how YOU would feel...) There is so much research information available which, I feel could have been used to DISPEL the worn out, recycled lies that have plagued him for over 150 years. Those of us who admire and respect him will continue to defend his reputation and honor his memory.
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