Edgar Allan Poe - Tormented Genius? | Documentary

Edgar Allan Poe is undoubtedly one of the greatest and most influential writers in world literature, practically inventing science fiction, the detective story and the horror genre, but he had a troubled life with almost all of the people he loved dying early.
Is this why so much of his writing deals with dark and sombre themes, or is there another explanation for his fascination with the bleaker aspects of life?
In this biographical documentary, Professor Graeme Yorston, Neuropsychiatrist, explores the mind and mysterious final few days of a tormented genius.
Finding Out More:
There are many biographies of Edgar Allen Poe, the most authoritative of these by Arthur Hobson Quinn stretches to over 800 pages so I have included some of the newer and shorter ones. There are many classic films of Poe stories as well as the more recent Pale Blue Eye and Raven films. But the best way to get to know Poe is to read his short stories - still engaging and powerful after almost 200 years. I have added links to these on my Amazon store page: www.amazon.com...
Academic References;
Francis, R. A. (2010). The Final Days of Edgar Allan Poe: Clues to an Old Mystery Using 21st Century Medical Science. OMEGA-Journal of Death and Dying, 60(2), 165-173.
Giammarco, E. (2013). Edgar Allan Poe: A psychological profile. Personality and Individual Differences, 54(1), 3-6.
Osborn, M. W. (2009). A detestable shrine: Alcohol abuse in antebellum Philadelphia. Journal of the Early Republic, 29(1), 101-132.
Patterson, R. (1992). Once upon a midnight dreary: the life and addictions of Edgar Allan Poe. CMAJ: Canadian Medical Association Journal, 147(8), 1246.
Pruette, L. (1920). A psycho-analytical study of Edgar Allan Poe. The American Journal of Psychology, 31(4), 370-402.
Teive, H. A. G., Paola, L. D., and Munhoz, R. P. (2014). Edgar Allan Poe and neurology. Arquivos de Neuro-psiquiatria, 72, 466-468.
Copyright Disclaimer:
The primary purpose of this video is educational. I have tried to use material in the public domain or with Creative Commons Non-attribution licences wherever possible. Where attribution is required, I have listed this below. I believe that any copyright material used falls under the remit of Fair Use, but if any content owners would like to dispute this, I will not hesitate to immediately remove that content. It is not my intention to infringe on content ownership in any way. If you happen to find your art or images in the video, please let me know and I will be glad to credit you.
Images:
Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons
Wellcome Collection
Poe Museum, Richmond Virginia
Edgar Allen Poe Society, Baltimore
Internet Archive
Music (via Wikimedia commons)
Bullof Heaven: By what eternal streams. CC0
Louis Gottschalk: Tournament Gallop. Rampart Winds of the United States Air Force Academy Band. Public domain.
Vladan Kuzmanovic: Prelude for broken piano No 2. CC4.0
Vladan Kuzmanovic: Technical etude for piano No 1 CC4.0
Gustav Mahler Trombone sole from 3rd Symphony: Trombonist Dennis Smith with W.W.S.S Wind Ensemble. William Cole, Conductor and Martha Goldstein, organ.
Johannes Brahms: Clarinet Trio OP 114. Paul Pitman (piano), Bang-Eun Lee (cello) and Michael Arnold (clarinet). Public domain via Musopen.
Corvus corax - Northern raven: Jonathon Jongsma. CC 3.0
Corvus splendens: Vladimir Yu. Arkhipov, Arkhivov CC3.0
Video produced by Graeme Yorston and Tom Yorston with the Voice Talent of Robert Meyers.

[@daveredinger1947]

My beautiful sister absolutely loved Edgar Allen Poe. She turned me on to him. I owe everything to her.. her love for literature. I believe she read everything he wrote. She wrote beautiful poetry also. Sadly she succumbed to lupus and died at 45!! Thanks for making this video!!! Take care!!

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Thanks for sharing, your sister sounds great!

[@daveredinger1947]

@@professorgraemeyorston thanks. Take care.

[@Kingsofoblivion]

Those were beautiful and touching sentiments.

[@daveredinger1947]

@@Kingsofoblivion thanks so much take care!!

[@DigitalDistortion]

Omgosh Lupus is usually a treatable disease and people now can live a normal life span. That’s horrible news.

[@peggyh4805]

I memorized The Raven in high school and still can recite much of it. It is melodic.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Fantastic, it just shows rote learning isn't all bad.

[@michaelgeorge595]

I love the Simpson version. Bart is the raven!😮

[@JustM2024]

​@professorgraemeyorston I am always wondering if it was a mixture of women, or his friends mother or his wife. I would love to know what you think. Thank you again for this wonderful video.

[@malissahyatt2425]

Listen to the Christopher Lee version on an overcast day. W earbuds.

[@angelapitts2123]

That's how I feel as well❤ I still know the first 9 paragraphs. It is very melodic ❤

[@voyaristika5673]

I've already left a comment but would like to share this anecdote from my substitute teaching days. Anyone who's been a substitute teacher will understand what it feels like to try singlehandedly to keep the inmates from taking over the asylum. This was a class of 6th graders and my goal was to subdue them. I found a copy of 'The Tell Tale Heart' on the bookshelf. Fat chance I thought, but I was desperate and it was worth a shot. None of the students had heard of Poe, so I gave them a brief background (all I knew.) As soon as I started reading the class became very quiet. Honestly, it was almost eerie. From there to the end of the story you could have heard a pin drop. Forty years later I wonder what those student would remember about their reactions to Poe's book. And wouldn't Poe be surprised to hear he worked such magic?!

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Wow, the power of great of great writing. Thank you for sharing.

[@goodlifeandhome]

Telltale heart is one of my very favorites❤

[@nataliewilliams9741]

I remember our sixth grade teachers playing a recording of Vincent Price narrating The Pit and The Pendulum and The Telltale Heart. I couldn't stand the sound of a heartbeat for several years after that. Our entire class seemed very subdued after that performance.

[@Zoe-c9z]

Never trust a stifler

[@Archie583]

You were the one! I've been looking for you for 40 years to file a lawsuit!!! :0)

[@cleverhandle420]

A lot of his writing, the narrators of his stories, exhibit classic ocd symptoms. It speaks to me as a sufferer. He was my favorite writer long before I was diagnosed. People think ocd is hand washing and checking lights but it is also so much more and so very, very tormenting. I don’t find it hard to believe he suffered from constant intrusive thoughts and tried, compulsively, to rid himself of them. Drug use disorder is a common comorbidity of ocd sufferers as well. For someone that wasn’t diagnosed with the disorder he seemed to have a very deep understanding of what it was like to live with it. Just my two cents. It’s sad that he suffered so much. Even tho there’s no evidence, medical records, etc, he’s become a folk hero among ocd sufferers bc of how relatable his writings are. He was brilliant. It’s a shame he fell to his demons.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Thank you, I didn't know that.

[@prototropo]

I really appreciate your post, having an interest in OCD. It's always helpful when someone shares their own experience.

[@frankG335]

I would love to know if there are any memoirs or other sources that describe what it's like to suffer with OCD.

[@M.Sforza]

I have obsessive tormenting thoughts that at times send me into a panic. It’s agony!

[@alayneperrott9693]

I found an illustrated volume of Poe's stories in the house and read them all when I was far too young. The Pit and the Pendulum, in particular, haunted me for years.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Poe is not for the faint-hearted.

[@tammymiller9773]

Me too. Also the one abt the blind man...And esp. The Cask of Amontillado. For the love of God, Montresor! Yes for the love of God... Shivers and i havent read it in 30 yrs...

[@Mindsi]

The raven. Well that’s a harsh allegorical tale if ever I’ve heard one😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂🎉🎉🎉

[@patriciajrs46]

​@@tammymiller9773I loved the Cask of Amontillado.

[@rbjones72703]

I love the Tell- Tale Heart

[@RuthZeeck]

I bought an old volume of Poe’s stories at a secondhand book shop when I was 17. I fell in love with Poe’s work then and 50 years later, he is still one of my favorite authors.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Some writers are able to transcend the passage of time.

[@karyannfontaine8757]

We studies Edgar Allen Poe in my Literature class in 1963. My teacher was wonderful and I was hooked enough to read any poems, and stories available. This was a fantastic documentary on his life. Having a brilliant friend who passed much the same way, I must agree with you about his sad end. I wish he had been appreciated during his lifetime.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Thank you.

[@voyaristika5673]

I always assumed Poe died of alcoholism, but I've never read enough about him to have heard other suggestions. He appeared to be a prime example of the definition of alcoholism being 'progressive and fatal.' It's easy to imagine the great life he could have lived without this horrible affliction. But then, who knows? Thanks again for another riveting video. Whether or not I think it will be of interest to me, everything you produce pulls me in. I love that because it creates new interests for further research. I really hope you keep going!

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Thank you, I plan to!

[@monicacall7532]

I agree. A good video presenter should be able to not only tell their story in an interesting and factual manner but should also inspire viewers to learn more about the subject or the person being highlighted on their own. You do both admirably. Thank Dr. Yorston for giving us more insight and context into the lives of the people you feature in these videos.

[@mclarsj]

Poe was an opium addict too. It's not that I condone his alcoholism. But the inspiration... we will never know. It was another time and another place.

[@frankpaya690]

​@@mclarsjHe died about 90 years before alcoholics anonymous was founded. Those hallucinations that he was describing to his aunt ARE- the DTs.

[@LuzMaria95]

i really love him so much. i love his horrific stories and poems. he was a genius of his genre. he always puts me in the mood for spooky season. his unsolved/questionable death is really sad and tragic.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

It was a sad end - but he achieved so much in his life.

[@LuzMaria95]

@@professorgraemeyorston thank you very much for responding to me. i hope you see this comment, i just wanted to say that what you said about creativity being seen/diagnosed as bipolar and the fact that that shouldn’t be happening and it’s being wrong meant a lot to me and i agree with that too. just because someone is talented and creative doesn’t mean they’re mentally ill. thank you so much. 💯

[@elizabethhannah4704]

@@LuzMaria95 Yes. When we meet, see, learn about people who are very creative/different/express themselves differently. People often aren't "curious" to learn more, but shut said person down!!!! There is NO, I don't understand what you mean etc.

[@johnnyflowers8085]

So I’m really trying to understand your post / reply regarding creative people. So are you saying that creative people are generally looked upon as bipolar or some type of affliction? That they are more or less undesirable people? I am truly curious of what you are trying to express.

[@marknewton6984]

@@professorgraemeyorston Nevermore. He influenced Emily and Stephen Crane.

[@localbod]

I think Poe's Dream Within A Dream is one of the finest poems ever written. Whetever one feels about him as a character or his works he shall not be forgotten.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

I hope not.

[@theShamrockShepherdWagon]

The actor who played Poe in The Pale Blue Eye was fantastic. I hope he continues to play Poe in other films. If you are a Poe fan and haven't seen the film, you are in for a treat!

[@professorgraemeyorston]

I agree, I loved the film - great performances all round.

[@Pea_Green]

Agree. He is Patrick Troughton's grandson. Acting royalty. Great movie, beautifully filmed, a real keeper.

[@karyannfontaine8757]

I would love to see the film. How can I do that?

[@monicacall7532]

I really enjoyed that film a lot, and it gave me great empathy for Poe.

[@monicacall7532]

I discovered Poe’s stories and poetry when I was 11. After reading “The Masque of the Red Death” I was hooked. On my mom’s side of the family we have had a problem with depression and alcoholism going hand in hand together for several generations. Until my sibs, cousins and I learned about this problem (it’d been hushed up for several generations) it was a serious challenge among the male members. (Self-medication with alcohol for depression is never a good idea.) Shedding light on the subject was the best thing that ever happened to our family. All but two of the men who struggled with this horrible disease got help and are now able to live normal, creative and happy lives. I don’t understand why society glamorizes drinking because the abuse of alcohol ruins not only the drinkers but their families and friends as well. My heart goes out to poor Poe for his struggles with alcohol addiction and mental illness in a time when both things were considered to be character deficiencies and not the physical illnesses that we now understand them to be. Imagine what his life and literary output could’ve been if there had been help for him to deal with his twin demons!

[@deniseelsworth7816]

Such a sound documentary. Down to earth and intelligent. I have heard more detail about his true personality here than any of the documentaries I have watched. Just subscribed

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Thank you, welcome aboard.

[@KMWeir]

My second comment is about Rufus Wilmot Griswold. He was someone who was envious of Poe and had some real power in the papers. This man was worked hard to ruin Poe’s reputation posthumously.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

He did indeed, I was going to include a discussion about his role in Poe's reputation, but the video was getting a bit long.

[@AlyxCoe]

Griswold went so far as to consign Poe's aunt/MIL Muddy (Maria Clemm) to abject poverty by denying her money he promised her after Poe's death.

[@aegoaway]

Slander gives envious people tremendous drive.

[@melissapinol7279]

I read a dreadful poem by Griswold called "Rosalie Lee" that was so derivative of Poe it's ridiculous. It's in a book of "bad poetry". He clearly had some literary jealousy going on.

[@charismalove2633]

He was such a passionate yet broken soul! But was extremely talented in writing from his heart! I have every books he’s written and it is one of the many poets/writers I can read over and over and never get tired of it.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Well said

[@teresacardell9492]

I love poe, his writing, so descriptive, you felt you were there. You can even smell what he described, let alone feel what the surrounding environment . Then again I love alot of published writing that were published around 1800.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

He was a Titan.

[@claresmith9261]

Yes, I loved reading his books when I was young and after watching this I’m going to read his poems, thank you for reminding me about him as I was just wondering what I’d read, hopefully they have him in my local library So sad he didn’t get to acclaim he deserved when he was alive 👍🏻

[@gw8147]

Poe's poem " Dreamland " is one of my favourite pieces of literature.

[@eileenbauer4601]

I appreciate this biography of one of my favorite authors. I read through his complete works 40 years ago, and return to them often. I especially enjoy his poetry and some of the lesser-known short stories. My own idea of his cause of death, although I suppose we’ll never know for sure, is also wernicke-korsakoff syndrome. I knew someone who had it and it fits the symptoms. Thank you for your thoughtful, unsensationalized and compassionate review of Poe’s life and death.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Thank you - I always like to hear that my conclusions fit with those of someone who knows the subject well.

[@redwoods7370]

Always loved the special and unique genius of Edgar Allen Poe.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Me too.

[@rocioaguilera3555]

Poe is still one of my favorite writers. The Pit and the Pendulum is so scary. I love it. The Missing Letter is challenging.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Mine too.

[@markboatman1497]

As an avid fan of Poe since the age of 11 I found this very interesting. It was well presented. Well done!

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Thank you, glad you enjoyed it.

[@lissacroft919]

Edgar is my favourite poet, along with Oscar Wilde and Lewis Carroll. I love that my name is Elizabeth. It says Edgar died in October yet his obit says September 7th. Why are there 2 dates? I think his darkness was due to the times and living through the white plague. Also could he have possibly passed away from alcohol and opium mixture? It sounds like a deadly combination. I was abandoned at 5 days old by my mom so I can relate to him feeling lost and depressed. It seems obvious when you have ever been through similar situations. I loved Vincent Price's portrayal of Poe's works in movies. Watching them as a child with my stepdad are part of my fondest memories as a child. Btw, I'm new to your channel and I love your content...subscribed ❤

[@JustM2024]

Thank you so much for this thoughtful portrait of a great writer. Your ideas are unique & well reasoned. He suffered so much death & abandonment that it's difficult to imagine. He's one of the very few men of his time that I can actually, forgive - more - understand why he would marry his 13 year old cousin, having lost so much family & needing a naive young girl to abide by his strange habits & his drinking. I wonder how many other drugs were involved in his addictions, given the laudanum & the fact that every type of drug was available at that time. He seemed to need a constant escape & drugs & alcohol provided it. And was Lenore his mother? His friends mother? His wife? A compilation of women? I wonder on this often. He's left us such a treasure trove of works! Thank you again for a really interesting dive into Poe's life.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@girlfriday1299]

This is a very sensitive, engaging and insightful discussion of Poe's life. It seems that so many brilliant and gifted people still struggle with addictive tendencies, and the resources available are so much h greater now than they were in times past. Thank you for sharing this!

[@professorgraemeyorston]

My pleasure.

[@marknewton6984]

Did he know Emily Dickinson?

[@TheStockwell]

@@marknewton6984 No. At the time of his death, Dickinson was 19 years old.

[@marknewton6984]

Don't miss the metaphor.

[@marknewton6984]

@@TheStockwell Nevermore.

[@JayGideon-7]

Very well done. I think even Poe would begrudgingly give this a 👍

[@barbarapalmer8224]

Very well said!! Great comment.

[@rachelanne5060]

Doctor Yorston, your work makes me feel so happy, thank you!

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Happy to hear that!

[@a.mie.533]

I love the light- handed treatment of that not exactly light topic. And I appreciate that you don't have to reduce complexity and ambiguity but accept them as such.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Thank you.

[@BrianRoberson-k7g]

Edgar Allan Poe was simply too far ahead of his time to survive. His writing sounds amazingly modern, and his works are way more accessible to an average reader than much of the other writings from that time.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Very true.

[@angelapitts2123]

My grandfather used to recite The Raven to me, when i was a child. It stuck with me and began my love for Poe❤

[@tiffanymerritt9757]

Thank you for investing your time and energy to create these fascinating videos and for sharing your vast knowledge with us. You make learning fun. I wish I would have had you as a professor.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Thank you Tiffany - I love learning about new topics and I just try to share my enthusiasm.

[@newshop3627]

Fascinating that in my youth, I scoffed at the mere sight of a book, yet as an adult, I adore the necessity, not art, of poetry and literature. Tools for the mind and soul to express the unforeseen thoughts within us all. Edgar Allan Poe was troubled, maybe that’s why so many flock to his work. It can serve as comfort, that even a genius is humbled by God, and can relate our own personal tribulations. Poor in money, rich in passion.

[@johnwright291]

I have always considered Poe to be the first rock star to die from a life of overindulgence and debauchery. For many years I was aware of a story he wrote called Astoria. I had always assumed that it referred to Astoria New York, and so didn't check it out until years later. Turns out its about the founding of Astoria Oregon. Its an amazingly detailed summary of the early exploration and settlement of the west coast of North America. I worked on tugboats from Alaska to California all my life so it was of special interest to me. Its as good a history of the area as i have ever read.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Interesting.

[@jak6326]

When you find a channel as wonderful as this how could you not sub? Thank you so much for a great piece of work x

[@davidlincolnbrooks]

Excellent discussion and beautifully-assembled video. Thanks for this, Dr. Yorston.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

You're most welcome! More to come!

[@Dirtypinkdrifter]

I have 2 of his poems tattooed on both of my forearms Annabel Lee and The Raven I’ve loved his work my entire life. I’ve battled alcoholism, I’ve lost my husband, many friends and most of my family as well. Maybe that’s why I admire him he would understand me in so many different ways.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

That is dedication!

[@jeffpotipco736]

How old are you?

[@thelionandthebee1933]

You are uniquely made. And precious in God's heart. I pray that God may help keep you safe.

[@michellechambers7615]

After working in the emergency room I agree that he died of DTs (delirium tremens) acute alcohol withdrawal can be fatal. I’ve seen it many times and his symptoms were classic.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Once seen, never forgotten.

[@brianbrian1769]

@michellechambers7615 I accidentally presented the symptoms of " The DT's." to my doctor and he asked me if I drank. I told him not recently as I hadn't had a drink for 2 days. He didn't care. I couldn't stop shaking but I'm still alive. May have been alcohol poisoning for E.A.P. Wonderful writings we are left with minus a C.O.D.

[@michellechambers7615]

I saw a lot working at Detroit Receiving Hospital!! It was at the beginning of HIV when they didn’t know the cause. It really prepared me for the real world. Finished training, worked in the suburbs which was a piece of cake!

[@dalhousiekid]

My first guess as well.

[@woofbark4475]

I was often asked by people for money on the streets where I live for the 'bus' but I offered to purchase food instead. Some take the approach that what someone does with the money you give to them is their choice, but I don't take this approach. I'd heard from a nurse about these tremors and a man approached me and straight up asked me for money for alcohol. I thought Wow! First time someone in need of alcohol was straight up about this without the BS about needing money for the bus. A nurse who.worked with withdrawing patients told me about how serious withdrawals can lead to death. This guy was shaking badly and so I decided to give him the money. I was at least able to also have a brief but amicable chat about signing himself in to detox centre. Whether he ever did or not I don't know but was better than simply ignoring his condition and.rejecting his request.

[@thechaz83]

Also, I’m a young writer of prose poems. To date, I’ve published 8 prose pieces along with an essay. From my perspective I believe Poe became fascinated with the dark side because, as our narrator said, everyone he loved that peopled his daily life died. In order to deal with it all he turned to writing. But many writers and artists, not all, are tragic figures. This isn’t because of the cut and dry answer-a mental illness, no. It’s because we’re a type of breed who feel more of a single emotion than your average. I’m the same way. It’s a tough cross to bear. We’re given to mood swings, fragility, and the like. Anyone who reads what I’ve written, I know movies and media romanticize it. But this is a horrible way to live. Please love each other and care for yourselves.

[@oirampeceda2409]

What have you written that has been turned into a movie, I wonder?

[@stellagrau8871]

Would you please tell us the title of some of your works?

[@marvwatkins7029]

Thanks Professor! I just KNEW you couldn't resist this head case!

[@sparrowwren8673]

Best biographical documentary on Poe I have ever seen. Thank you and much appreciation. 😊

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Thank you, glad you enjoyed it!

[@sparrowwren8673]

your quite welcome @@professorgraemeyorston

[@Monkofmagnesia]

I opened the video because it is about Poe, but, once you said this is part of Insane History, I subscribed (and gave a like). Poe is one of my favorite authors. So is Nicolai Gogol whose life ended in insanity. I hope you do a video on him as well.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Great suggestion - Gogol is a personal favourite!

[@jubalcalif9100]

KUDOS, sir ! Another well made video ! Absolutely fascinating ! Two thumbs up ! 👍👍

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@kevinlutz5994]

A nice pictures, graphics and story. Human weakness's and frailties in himself, his characters, and in us all but he knew how to spin great stories. His words are almost 200 years old. His stories read like poetry. One of my favorite authors.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

It is surely the sign of a great writer that their work is still enjoyed by different generations.

[@katherinemcdonnell6333]

I just discovered this channel and I am so glad that I did! His voice is soothing.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Thank you, welcome aboard!

[@divadaedalus]

Thank you for treating Edgar Allan Poe so respectfully. Apparently as he was dying he said the word “Croatoan” which was found carved into a tree on the site of the lost Roanoke Colony. Your diagnosis is astute, logical and very probably accurate but as an old Virginian who studied Poe as a graduate student I relish the macabre mystery of Croatoan.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

We should probably stick with the Croatoan mystery - far more interesting!

[@abraxasjinx5207]

That sounds like total mythology. I'm not sure if you are being sarcastic.

[@greatmcluhansghost7134]

What do you think it means?

[@TheStockwell]

No offense intended, but Poe made no such deathbed utterance. Is this how urban myths get started? 🧐

[@divadaedalus]

@@TheStockwell no offense taken. Was tongue in check except for the reference to Sir Walter Raleigh’s lost colony of Roanoke ( Hatteras N. C.). However in the twilight of my life I truly do relish myth and mystery. After all for centuries they said giant squids were mythological sea beasts. How much of the Biblical Canon is myth and mystery? Using myth in its original context not the common meaning of a lie. Or, as an Episcopalian, the majestic Liturgies found in the Book of Common Prayer that still feed my soul? Art and Iconography? (Too tired to touch world religions today. :). Go Nessie! :) I confess I do enjoy this.

[@zeromathematics]

Thank you. This was really well done, and I learned a bunch of details I never knew.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Thanks for watching.

[@NathanPurvis-hm8nc]

God gave him a spark of genius, but quenched it in misery. I know how that feels

[@Locust_Clips]

This deserves more likes. Keep on going man. Thing Will get better.

[@M.Sforza]

My entire life has been a nightmare…minus the genius I’m sure.

[@CorCor-mq8vm]

For me the best writer I have read. Once read you NEVER forget as if it are your own experiences.

[@redwatch.]

Fantastic video. Logical, informative and entertaining. Looking forward to viewing more of the professor's creations.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Glad you enjoyed it! There over 100 to choose from and more coming.

[@tracycraft2546]

Love your channel! So interesting!

[@dj-kq4fz]

My favorite period author, with RLS being a close second. Thanks!

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Robert Louis Stevenson is another fascinating character.

[@taralee7076]

Your conclusion is compelling and I would have to concur with this given the facts you present. I really enjoy your narrative as well.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Thank you.

[@m.richard.helton1547]

I know the current family that is alive that has his last name and they still talk to him with disrespect call him crazy even though they still live off of his money very well. The whole family was screwed from his Sister and generations to come are just as bad. No matter what people say he was a literary Genius and one of my writing mentors. Thanks to his influence I am an author of psychological thrillers and horror.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Thank you for that, it seems a shame they don't respect him.

[@Youareme42o]

This is such a great channel one of the best on you tube imo thank you professor.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Wow, thank you!

[@Youareme42o]

@@professorgraemeyorston you are welcome

[@victoryak86]

It almost seems like a cliche of history, the tortured, under appreciated artist who dies penniless but later is recognized for their actual genius and talent. Poe is the epitome of this in literature and Van Gogh for art. It’s almost painful to hear their sad stories but a reminder of how often the most priceless gold tends to be borne out of the crucible of excruciating pain. I’m convinced as well, that alcohol led to the many physiological consequences and his early death. All quite well established by the endless body of knowledge about alcohol abuse and it’s results. On another note, but I’d love to see a documentary from your perspective on Kubrick. Such a fascinating genius with a whole mythology surrounding him. Anyway, just thought I’d ask. Cheers.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Thank you, great suggestion. I'll take a look at Kubrick's life.

[@victoryak86]

@@professorgraemeyorston I really appreciate the time and research that go into these documentaries. Really good stuff!

[@NancyChristine-mp3mt]

I just found your website a short time ago. And I'm so glad I did. I had researched Poe for some artwork I intend to do, and learned nothing like the details you give us! You do such a great job!! Well done. Thank you

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Glad it was helpful.

[@carriekelly4186]

Thank you for your knowledge,research and valid opinions on dear EAP. Very well done.😊

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Thank you.

[@dinamassoud2875]

I am from Egypt, my late mother loved his writings, and she introduced it to me

[@AlyxCoe]

I finished a horror biopic on Poe last year. Ñearly drove me mad. Love him. I agree, as another alcoholic, alcoholism was his downfall. I don't understand why this isn't obvious.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

It is, but Poe fans want to find excuses.

[@AlyxCoe]

@@professorgraemeyorston yes, and really they're "faux" Poe fans. His true devotees like you and me accept the truth about him.

[@leotierichards3233]

Your portraits are so constructed, with ample graphic illustrations and a compelling storyline. I am very inspired to them and intend to watch quite a few. Thanks!

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Thank you, welcome aboard.

[@BillHalliwell]

Dear Professor Yorston, thank you so much for this deeply informative, engaging look at one of the world's greatest, yet most troubled writers. This is the first of your videos I’ve seen and, for once, I’m grateful for the infamous ‘KZbin algorithm’ suggesting your channel at random. I've been a serious fan of Poe's work for many years and I thought I had heard all I needed to know about his tormented background. Not so. I have also seen movies about his life and his best-known work; the last being an excellent film entitled 'The Pale Blue Eye' (2022 - Netflix). As detailed as that work was, I learned more about Poe from your narration in this outstanding 24-minute video. NB: Since writing the next three paragraphs, I sampled a selection of your other videos which show you speaking ‘to-camera’ from your study and you are, of course, perfectly relaxed; giving your full attention to your topic. I have, however, decided to leave these as they hold a tiny piece of advice concerning the specific kind of outdoor shots I was referring to, in this video. I hope you will understand when, as an historian and documentary maker, I bring your attention to a small, well intentioned, suggestion about your brief, on-screen, segments of this video. Had I directed those segments I would have had you sitting on a bench, or even on a raised tombstone base rather than walking through the cemetery. You, clearly, were not comfortable with your movements but I dare say this was because you were walking in front of a camera operator who, I could tell, was not as proficient as expected by walking backwards to get those shots. Your narration in the rest of this video is a truly professional job that took advantage of your excellent speaking voice and professional knowledge; however, in the exterior shots you were clearly distracted by a camera set up, I’m guessing, you found to be awkward. All that aside, I think your various prognoses and ultimate diagnosis of Poe's probable end condition and cause of death to be completely logical and, therefore, most probably correct. I now know you have applied your expertise to other well-known figures from history. I found the application of your modern scientific methods to the conditions of those who lived in periods where such medical and psychological facts were not available; to be truly fascinating. You opened up my mind to deeper thought on the tragic life and times of Edgar Allan Poe. I am truly looking forward to catching up with the other videos on your channel. Once again, thank you for this video. Bill H.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Thank you, it's a learning curve!

[@peterhaslund]

Finally, a calm reading of a tormented mind. It's so very hard for us today to imagine what it must have been really like to live in the romantic period, a time of premature death and the morbid modernity of mind. Edgar Allan Poe created both the horror and the detective novel, at least

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Thank you, yes living in the nineteenth century can't have been easy.

[@aprilsgiggle]

Sorry, but Poe did not create the horror. Try looking at Horace Walpole's work for that door to open.

[@peterhaslund]

@@aprilsgiggle Sorry but that Otranto gibberish is just a Hamlet wannabe, might as well name Shakespeare then 🤭

[@ruthshelton-tp9ie]

I just subbed today. I live in Maryland & if I find myself at the VA Hospital I always pop accross the street to the church & graveyard & see "hi" to Mr. Poe. While in Baltimore i also visited Mr. Poe's home. While exploreing it I heard a young lady stateing how she hated Poe's work.I was there to hear readings of his works & stated that out loud. Just then a shutter that was with others leaning against thw wall, flew up & almost his the young lady who then ran down the staires & she ran outside, they had to mail her last check. I quickly stated that I loved his works & thanked the sprite for letting me be in his home & hear his works. I'm into 'ghost hunting. (GhostCityShelton so that didn't frightened me. 😊

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Fantastic story, love it.

[@JasonRoggasch]

He is so well remembered and beloved that they named the football team after his writings.

[@evilqueenyiayia]

Ahh So glad I found this. Edgar Allan Poe was one of my favorite reads as a child, and often reread as an adult. Alone is my favorite poem and I often listen to it on You Tube, which is wonderful for some things. Thank You ❤

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@UndergroundSkat2000]

Well done video Doc! Keep up the great work

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Much appreciated! Will do!

[@TuckerSP2011]

I think you assessed him correctly. Back in those times there was so much death, and such a morbid focus on death and mourning. People would display memento Mori in their homes of their lost loved ones, wear lockets of the hair of the dead etc. Melancholy was very pervasive in that time before antibiotics and sanitary medicine. Easily one could obtain potions such as laudanum and spirits. He seemed doomed from the start. I want you to know that I enjoy your presentations very much. Could you examine the life of Keith Moon sometime? Thanks doc!

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Thank you. Yes I'll add Keith Moon to the list - another real character!

[@TuckerSP2011]

@@professorgraemeyorston Thank you so much! I am particularly interested in his degeneration during the frequent inactive periods that the band went through as the years went on.

[@Fuphyter]

I love Edgar Allen Poe. It was obvious he had his demons. He was still a phenominal storyteller. I had a book of poems as a child in the 60s. His poetry stood out and I loved them. Thank you for this video. I'm very glad it showed up this morning. Very well told.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@Fuphyter]

I have a theory about creative people. I'm not a psychologist, but I've noticed similarities in their personalities and choices they make. I wonder if you would agree. Let me know if you are curious to hear/read it. Thanks

[@davidmolloy126]

Professor, Thank you very much for a very informative video. I'm a recovering alcoholic and very much recognise some of Poe's problems. I haven't hadva drink now for 22 years. From a new subscriber in Lancashire. I

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Welcome aboard and well done for staying dry.

[@CM-st1dl]

If it would be of help, *Venerable Matt Talbot* is a person who you might acquaint yourself with, and whose long struggles might give you some strength. Many good short biographies available for free on line. All the best to you.

[@davidmolloy126]

@@CM-st1dl Thank you very much, I will follow this up.

[@AmySorrellMusic]

The Alan Parson's Project did an album of his poems. Tales of Mystery and Imagination. I still love it to this day.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Great album

[@jmad627]

Hmmm…not familiar with this album. I’ll have to look it up.

[@brannonmcclure6970]

This was well documented. What a great writer. He is my favorite. I’m not well read. Poe can teach you how to write. 👨‍🎓

[@silvertbird1]

Very interesting and insightful commentary and analysis. Of his true nature, afflictions, and untimely expiration, we shall know the facts - nevermore!

[@ShamanJeeves]

Thank you for producing this!

[@professorgraemeyorston]

My pleasure.

[@rochellestarr9538]

I started reading poe at the age of 10.After teaching theatre for 40 years.I now run a charity puppet show for kids in need and perform THE RAVEN for Halloween.My young puppeters fight over who gets to do it.I believe that GOD granted Poe much GENIUS and that he squashed it himself ,with alcohol.My favorite,"THE MASK of the Red Death" is a story that extends time and applies today.As society shuts out those who are different ,they infect themselves with something much worse.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Glad you're keeping him alive.

[@DarrylRuiz-s1w]

As a kid I was drawn to Dark.Literature Poe and Lovecraft were my favorite authors

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Good choice!

[@ghostdance56]

Recitation of his poem 'The Raven' should be mandatory in all high schools if learning English is still a goal of educating children.

[@marknewton6984]

Greatest trochaic poem ever. And no-- they don't teach English anymore.

[@therealhellkitty5388]

I memorized The Ravenas a freshman in high school and wrote a parody of it as a Junior.

[@ghostdance56]

@@therealhellkitty5388 - I once shot the eye out of a groundhog at 80 feet in middle school.

[@mousamuneebexplorer]

Thank You for the information ℹ️

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@johnbaugh2437]

I am a physician and agree with your assessment of his death. I have treated this condition too often.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Thank you - and yet it is still under-recognised to this day.

[@Lonesome__Dove]

I can't get enough of your videos. So glad there's lots of content to catch up on.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

And plenty of new ones to come.

[@taxpayer1962]

Thanks Professor recently joined you channel enjoyed the Capone and Hemingway episodes; would it be possible perhaps to do one on gangster Dutch Schultz who obviously had issues and Errol Flynn who led a life a bit more over the top then Hemingway?

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Welcome aboard, I'll look into them.

[@jeannedouglas9912]

What a very tragic and quite weird life. Hard to believe marrying a 13 y/o cousin was socially acceptable or even legal. He sure experienced great loss from an early age and betrayal. Thanks for taking the time to post these documentaries.

[@deIcorazon]

you are amazing dr!!!! thank you for talking about him so respectfully, i absolutely adore your videos.

[@brontiq]

Can you think of any writer darker that Poe? Just from the top of my head... Lovecraft, King, Andrews, Le Fanu, Feist... But don't get me wrong. I absolutely LOVE Poe. I just don't find him so dark he should be #1 on the darkness scale

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Fair enough, I suppose I was thinking of contemporary writers!

[@keyissues1027]

Poe had a harrowing disappointing life and his losses of the women whom he dearly loved.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

He did indeed.

[@rosemaryfranzese317]

I really appreciate your common sense approach to interpreting information about famous people.

[@CentralCalPiper]

Another wonderful video! Thank you!

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@risboturbide9396]

Thank you for this video; can't wait to watch the one about Van Gogh!

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@rokurussell9862]

Given the repeated and prolonged exposure to tuberculosis, i think there's a plausible case for central nervous system TB. It comes on suddenly and kills quickly. He was feverish when he left Richmond and that might have been the onset of symptoms. A few weeks later, he was dead.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Interesting suggestion, but in my experience tuberculous meningitis has a more insidious onset.

[@jonathaneffemey944]

Thanks for posting.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Thanks for watching.

[@rocioaguilera3555]

He had hallucinations because they're part of the alcohol withdrawal syndrome. Unfortunately in those times they didn't know how to treat it. Alcohol withdrawal syndrome can be deadly due to hypoglycemia. Thanks for this excellent video

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Thank you.

[@BGTuyau]

My sole quibble, perhaps, with the analysis proposed by Professor Yorston -who, on the strength of his several presentations, I would've loved to have had as my 19th Century American Lit instructor- of Poe's troubles is that, for all that alcohol is a prime suspect in the demise of many a lesser [and greater]-talented artist, these things are clearly overdetermined. A neuropsychiatric specialist would surely know this and take it into account. Perhaps Yorston implicitly does this in his videos, which makes them rewarding to watch. In any case, this was a fascinating account, far superior an evaluation of one man's complicated life than most of the standard offerings in literature studies curricula.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Trying to link behaviours to disorders in historical figures is fraught with difficulties, one can only present the possibilities and offer some modern interpretations.

[@ElkoJohn]

So far, the best Poe documentary I have watched. I agree with your conclusion about dying from DT.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Thank you.

[@pawsitivitypeople4305]

My great uncle discovered that Poe was a distant cousin. We have alcoholism in our family. I believe that alcoholism starts when the person is trying to take care of there own mental health issues which in turn could be bipolar. Which brings me to the point that my daughter was diagnosed with borfer personality. My father was an alcoholic. I suffer from bouts of depression. I believe a genetic condition of a mood disorder creates the alcoholic. A drink to stop the rollercoaster ride of depression, which of course does not work. Yes, my daughter has a PhD. I had high grades in college. My father was intelligent. Maybe there is also a genetic link of intelligence and mood disorders.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

It is not uncommon for people to claim that they are self-medicating with alcohol, but it never makes depression better.

[@jamesalt7433]

Many many years ago, I remember reading a biography of Poe. I had an intense interest in him as a teenager I remember the biography, pointing out that has an infant and fatherless and in a destitute condition in the bitter winters, his mother would placate him with a rag, soaked in rum or similar spirit, that he may use as a pacifier.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

I hadn't read that but alcohol, cocaine and opium were all used to quieten infants in the 19th century.

[@JessicaMcGowan-bu4ls]

I will always be a Poe fan. I think he was an innovator in some of his work. Also the Purloined Letter is such a good lesson in hiding something in plain sight. Clutter conceals. My negative issue is yes, he was not wealthy but he was still living better than many other people. I also get impatient with the tortured, artist mentality of 'life is so terrible and that is why I have to drink cause no one understands me'. Get over yourself buddy. I expect a lot of angry responses but please people, keep in mind, I started liking Poe when I was 12 and still do.

[@patriciafeehan7732]

This is not angry, many love Edgar Allan Poe. You must know it is Poe who wrote the first detective story, the first true crime story, and of course the dark side of man.

[@JessicaMcGowan-bu4ls]

Murders in Rue Morgue was considered the first. I can only imagine Poe observing writers like Ira Levin and Stephen King who made lots of money when he had great ideas long before any of them.

[@concreteflies3457]

Professor Yorstons walk towards the camera is more freightening than anything Edgar Allan Poe could ever think of.

[@jilltagmorris]

These are fabulous 🎉❤😊

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Glad you like them!

[@SophiaMusik]

I would be keenly interested in you doing a video about Mary Todd Lincoln's later years.I am reminded that at some point years after Lincoln had been assassinated, Mary was found wandering the streets of Chicago with an ungodly amount of money stitched into her petticoat. Professor Yorston, your unraveling of mythology and presenting good reasonable hypothesis is appreciated.

[@elizabethhannah4704]

Thank You, Thank You. That was an extremely interesting video. Very insightful and helpful. I pray that his Soul is at Rest now.

[@dorthonian]

For the last 55 years, I was ignorant of the fact that Poe was educated in Irvine, my old home town. Never once, being educated there myself, was any mention ever made of this. Such a great pity.

[@professorgraemeyorston]

It's a shame, there should be a plaque or something.

[@dorthonian]

@@professorgraemeyorston I think he’d prefer a plague.💀 Your theory, about how his life ended, seems sensible. An alcoholic bender, “rolled” by thieves for his clothing and valuables, and then dying from either his injuries or severe alcohol withdrawals or both, seems highly likely. A tragic end for a tortured soul. Thank you for the video

[@marvwatkins7029]

It is said that drinking kills brain cells and that those are the key cells that never grow back (except for brain cancer, perhaps). That may explain a lot with some of the authors discussed in this series.

[@Newfoundmike]

His ( POEMS ) are AMAZING

[@professorgraemeyorston]

Agreed!