"The Philosophy of Composition"

"The Philosophy of Composition" is an essay by Edgar Allan Poe outlining his approach to writing poetry and stories. He argues that good creative work is carefully planned rather than spontaneous, emphasizing the importance of structure, mood, and the emotional impact on the audience. Poe demonstrates how he composed his famous poem "The Raven" by carefully choosing words and rhythm to create a specific effect. His philosophy suggests that effective writing combines artistic intuition with deliberate craftsmanship, balancing beauty, clarity, and emotional power through thoughtful planning and revision.