Edgar Allan Poe Legacy

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There have been many authors through history who have left a legacy, but one author, Edgar Allen Poe, has left something far greater than that. Though many writers have played an important part in culture, most have not even scratched the surface of the influence Poe has left behind. Poe was not only a writer, he was an artist who could paint mysterious and horrific stories with his words and created things that no one else had. Furthermore, he was the originator of the detective story and a shocking poet, and his writings will forever be immortalized through the works of others. Thus, many authors, musicians and screenwriters were, and still are, influenced by Edgar Allen Poe’s writing style and the somber life he lived. Poe has always been …show more content…

Music supposedly soothes the savage mind, but many musicians find or have found inspiration in Edgar Allan Poe’s tormented soul. Through his poems and short stories, a muse has been found that speaks to musicians. Such as Marilyn Manson who states “some of his inspiration for his music and art comes from Edgar Allan Poe 's works, and he has even painted a portrait of Poe (“Edgar Allen Poe and Music”). Manson’s stage personification can be compared to Poe’s dark and sadistic lifestyle, with his grotesque and theatrical performances. One could even say he carries on the life Poe did, with his choice to abuse drugs and …show more content…

Dylan and Manson, who often credit Poe for inspiration and influence, are two of many. Other notable singers/songwriters/musicians, who are also inspired by Poe, are 30 Seconds to Mars, Escape the Fate, Queen, The Beatles, Alice Cooper, and even Brittany Spears (“Edgar Allen Poe and Music”). Who all have reference Poe’s writings in their songs or/and performances. Along with modern society’s love of music and the written word, exist another media outlet that must be mentioned. Whether it be the big screen or modern television, one cannot omit Poe’s influence on screenwriter’s and their works. From yesterday’s silent movies to today’s popular mystery/psychological thrillers, his impact cannot be denied. Likewise, popular shows such as Bones, CSI, Criminal Minds, and Sherlock (BBC mini-series), or movies such as Psycho. The Silence of the Lambs, The Raven, Etc…may have never came about without his creation of the detective/who done it story or the movie/show with the twist ending