The Philosophy of Composition

Poe describes the creative process he claims he followed writing “The Raven.” Regardless of whether his account is exact, Poe’s explanation is relevant because it provides an image of the artist or writer, and of the creative process in general, that dispels notions popularized by Romanticism, some of which persist even today.

In Poe’s depiction, the poet’s point of departure is the desired effect on the reader. Once the writer decides on the effect, he must employ his analytical skills and consider the various alternatives that will allow him to produce that effect. According to Poe, the writer will at times reason deductively, progressing from a general idea or principle to a particular conclusion. This may be seen when, after establishing that the highest tone for poetry is sadness, he concludes that the most poetic topic is the death of a beloved woman. At other points, Poe reasons inductively, such as when he reflects on the utility of having a refrain or when he considers which vowel and consonant combination will highlight the mournful tone that he wants to achieve.

Poe’s view of the writer as someone who uses his rationality to create connections between cause and effect when selecting the formal and thematic elements of the text contrasts with the view held by the British and German Romantics.