Did Edgar Allan Poe Have a Pet?

Edgar Allan Poe was a renowned American writer and poet known for his dark and mysterious tales. While his literary works continue to captivate readers, there has been some speculation about whether he had a pet. This article delves into the intriguing question of whether Edgar Allan Poe kept a pet and explores the available evidence.

Pet Ownership in the 19th Century

In the 19th century, pet ownership was not as common as it is today. Pets were often seen as a luxury, and their care and maintenance required significant time and resources. However, there were instances of notable writers and poets keeping pets, such as Charles Dickens, who had a pet raven named Grip.

Evidence of Poe's Pet Ownership

While there is no definitive proof that Edgar Allan Poe owned a pet, there are several pieces of evidence that suggest he may have had a companion animal:

1. Anecdotal Accounts:

Anecdotal accounts from individuals who knew Poe claim that he had a pet. For example, Rufus Wilmot Griswold, a literary critic and editor who published a biography of Poe after his death, wrote that the author once kept a raccoon as a pet. Grisworld described the raccoon as "a mischievous, but amusing pet, which he allowed to run about his room at will."

2. Literary Allusions:

Poe's literary works sometimes feature animals in significant roles, suggesting that he may have had a fondness for them. For instance, his short story "The Raven" prominently features a talking raven named "Nevermore." Additionally, in his poem "The Bells," he refers to "the little bells in mice's ears."

3. Poe's Admiration for Animals:

Poe is known to have expressed his admiration for animals on several occasions. In a letter to a friend, he wrote, "I am a firm believer in the doctrine of metempsychosis, and delight in fancying that I have inhabited the bodies of many animals." This sentiment suggests that he had a deep appreciation for the animal kingdom.

Debunking the Pet Ownership Claims

Despite the aforementioned evidence, some scholars have questioned the validity of the claims that Edgar Allan Poe owned a pet. They argue that the anecdotal accounts are unreliable and that Poe's literary allusions to animals may simply be a reflection of his vivid imagination.

Conclusion

While the question of whether Edgar Allan Poe had a pet remains unanswered, the available evidence offers tantalizing glimpses into his possible relationship with animals. Poe's fascination with the animal kingdom, as evidenced by his literary works and personal anecdotes, suggests that he may well have had a pet companion during his lifetime.