Writer, poet, critic, and editor Edgar Allan Poe was born in Boston, Massachusetts on January 19, 1809 and became a literary sensation in 1845 with the publication of his poem "The Raven," considered a great American literary work and one of the best of Poe's career.

His creative talents led to the beginning of different literary genres, earning him the nickname "Father of the Detective Story" among other distinctions. He produced thrilling tales, such as “The Cask of Amontillado," and poems such as "Ulalume" and "The Bells." On October 3, 1849 Poe was found in Baltimore in great distress. His actual cause of death has been the subject of endless speculation. He was taken to Washington College Hospital where he died on October 7. His last words were "Lord, help my poor soul."

Narrator Edward E. French is an Oscar nominated Special Makeup Effects Artist for Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country and Emmy Award winner for SPFX Makeup seen in “House” and the “Westworld” reboot.