Text: George William Curtis, “[Comment on Edgar Poe and His Critics],” Harper's Monthly Magazine, vol. XX, no. 119, April 1860, pp. 693-694

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Edgar Poe and his Critics, by SARAH HELEN [page 694:] WHITMAN. (Published by Rudd and Carleton.) The character of the weird and subtle poet to whose defense this little volume is devoted was concealed by the cloud of mystery which rested also on his life, and which was such a favorite element in his productions. Few men have had more fervent admirers or more bitter enemies. The spell of his genius cast an enchantment around even his most erratic courses; and those who suffered the most at his hands have often been the most eloquent in his eulogy. On the other hand, his faults and errors have furnished ample materials to detraction, and kindled the fires of suspicion and jealousy into fiercer flames. The author of this volume has engaged in the task of exculpation as a duty of tender charity. She has essayed to spread a silvery vail over the form of the departed, to explain his actions where they needed illustration, and to present a kindly excuse where they were incapable of defense. Her poetic spirit, her womanly ingenuity of argument, and her affectionate admiration of the genius in whose behalf she has enlisted, have done the utmost to redeem the memory of Edgar Poe; but they will probably have little effect to change his place in public opinion.