The Narrative of Arthur Gordon Pym of Nantucket by Edgar Allan Poe

[gilda_elise]

The Narrative of Arthur Gordon Pym of Nantucket is a gripping and atmospheric tale that showcases Poe's mastery of the horror genre. Considered one of the best classic horror novels of all time, this thrilling story follows the harrowing adventures of its eponymous protagonist.
Poe's skillful storytelling creates a dark and foreboding atmosphere throughout the narrative. From the eerie setting of the Nantucket ship to the treacherous sea voyages, readers are immersed in a world filled with suspense and unknown dangers. The vivid descriptions and unsettling imagery contribute to the sense of dread and unease that permeates the story.
As Arthur Gordon Pym embarks on a perilous journey, the novel delves into the depths of human nature, exploring themes of survival, desperation, and the moral complexities that arise in extreme situations. The characters' actions and choices under duress reveal the fragility of the human psyche and raise thought-provoking questions about the lengths people will go to ensure their own survival.
The Narrative of Arthur Gordon Pym of Nantucket is a chilling and thought-provoking masterpiece that continues to captivate readers with its atmospheric prose, psychological depth, and exploration of the darker aspects of human existence. It stands as a testament to Poe's enduring legacy as one of the greatest masters of horror literature.

I’m giving the book 2 stars because I couldn’t imagine giving any writing by Poe only one, but it was a close call.

The Narrative of Arthur Gordon Pym of Nantucket, written in 1838, is the only complete novel by Edgar Allan Poe. The story starts out as a fairly conventional adventure at sea, with Pym stowing away on his friend’s, Augustus, father’s ship. There’s a mutiny, canibalism, and a dog that, without explanation, disappears from the story. At that point, the ship is adrift, and the men soon run out of supplies. After Pym’s friend, Augustus, dies, the two remaining members, Pym and Peters, one of the mutineers, are rescued by the ship, the Jane Guy.

Then, somehow, a ship that Pym initially thinks is too small for the fur trade ends up in the Antarctic! After even more strange adventures, our hero and Peters row out to sea in a small boat, fleeing from savages. Suddenly a shrouded figure appears before them, and the book ends suddenly.

I did some research, and someone, Poe or his editor, released an addendum, stating that Pym had died in an accident, with the remaining chapters of his story lost. If found, they would be published. Apparently, they were never found. It could be that, because Peo retired from the Messenger, he never finished the novel.

All in all, the book is a real disappointment.




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Something by Poe
1. The Narrative of Arthur Gordon Pym of Nantucket by Edgar Allan Poe

Comments

[tinny]

the only complete novel by Edgar Allan Poe.

for certain values of "complete"... :/

[gilda_elise]

Lol, I hadn't thought of it that way. I don't know, maybe back then that was considered an okay way to end a novel. Very weird.

[justjo2u]

That is a shame. It sounded promising. I have to admit I haven't read much Poe.

[gilda_elise]

I've read most of his short stories. Back in the day, he and Lovecraft were the only game in town when it came to horror. Which makes his novel that much more of a disappointment.