The Philosophy of Composition

Edgar Allan Poe’s essay, "The Philosophy of Composition", sets forth a theory on good writing. It first appeared in the April 1846 issue of Graham's Magazine, and Poe illustrates his theory on the composition of his poem, "The Raven". The three main elements of his philosophy of composition are length, logical method, and "unity of effect". Poe believed that literary works should be short, claimed that writing is methodical, not spontaneous, and asserted that a work of fiction ought to be written only after the author has decided on the conclusion and on the desired emotional response or effect. Once this effect has been established, the writer should proceed to other elements such as the characters, plot, setting, theme, and tone. Because of its logical rigidity, it has been suggested that this essay was meant as satire.

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