Comparing Edgar Allan Poe's Stories with Dickinson's Poem

Death has always been a captivating and haunting theme in literature, evoking a wide range of emotions and thoughts. Two renowned writers who skillfully explored the concept of death in their works are Edgar Allan Poe and Emily Dickinson. Poe, known for his dark and mysterious tales, and Dickinson, famous for her introspective and enigmatic poetry, both provide unique perspectives on the subject of death. Through a close examination of Poe's stories and Dickinson's poem, this essay will compare the depictions of death in their works, shedding light on the similarities and differences in their approaches.

In both Poe's story "The Tell-Tale Heart" and Dickinson's poem "Because I could not stop for Death," death is portrayed as an unavoidable and inescapable force. In "The Tell-Tale Heart," the narrator is consumed by guilt and paranoia after committing murder, haunted by the sound of the deceased man's beating heart. Similarly, in "Because I could not stop for Death," the speaker personifies death as a gentleman who kindly takes her on a carriage ride towards eternity, emphasizing the inevitability and acceptance of death.

One common theme that emerges from both Poe's and Dickinson's works is the relentless presence of death. In "The Tell-Tale Heart," the narrator is tormented by the incessant beating of the heart, even after he has committed the gruesome act. This constant reminder of death reflects the idea that one cannot escape the consequences of their actions, even in death. Similarly, in "Because I could not stop for Death," the speaker describes the carriage ride as a leisurely journey, with time passing by slowly. This portrayal suggests that death is an ever-present companion, patiently waiting for its arrival.

Furthermore, both Poe and Dickinson explore the psychological impact of death on their characters. In "The Tell-Tale Heart," the narrator's guilt and paranoia gradually consume him, leading to his confession of the crime. This descent into madness highlights the psychological turmoil and guilt that death can inflict on an individual. Similarly, in "Because I could not stop for Death," the speaker reflects on her own mortality and the realization that life is fleeting. This introspective examination of death evokes a sense of contemplation and introspection, forcing the reader to confront their own mortality.

Despite these similarities, there are also notable differences in how death is depicted in Poe's stories and Dickinson's poem. Poe's portrayal of death is often more gruesome and macabre, filled with vivid imagery and horrifying details. In "The Tell-Tale Heart," for example, the narrator's obsession with the old man's eye and the brutal murder itself create a chilling atmosphere. On the other hand, Dickinson's depiction of death is more serene and contemplative. In "Because I could not stop for Death," the speaker's journey with death is presented as peaceful and even comforting, with a sense of acceptance and tranquility.

In conclusion, Edgar Allan Poe and Emily Dickinson both offer compelling perspectives on the theme of death in their works. Through their respective stories and poems, they explore the inevitability of death, the psychological impact it has on individuals, and the contrasting emotions it evokes. While Poe's stories often delve into the macabre and horrifying aspects of death, Dickinson's poem presents a more serene and contemplative view. By comparing and contrasting their depictions of death, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the complex and multifaceted nature of this universal human experience.

Overall, the works of Edgar Allan Poe and Emily Dickinson serve as powerful reminders of the constant presence of death in our lives and the various ways it can be interpreted and understood. Through their masterful storytelling and poetic prowess, Poe and Dickinson continue to captivate readers and provoke contemplation on the mysteries and complexities of the human condition.