The death then of a beautiful woman is unquestionably the most poetical topic in the world, and equally is it beyond doubt that the lips best suited for such topic are those of a bereaved lover.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Poe argues that the death of a beautiful woman is the most poetic subject, best expressed by a grieving lover.
- In plain terms
- He says the saddest and most poetic thing is a beautiful woman dying, told by her lover.
- What can you take from it?
- Grief over beauty is considered the height of poetry.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Why is death poetic?
- Who benefits from this view?
Another view
It reduces women to aesthetic objects rather than people.
More from Edgar Allan Poe
Beauty is the sole legitimate province of the poem.
Permalink to quote #34 Can it be fancied that Deity ever vindictively Made in his image a mannikin merely to madden it?
Permalink to quote #36 For the love of God Montressor!
Permalink to quote #33
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