Analysis Of The Writings Of Washington Irving, Nathaniel...

Review of writings of Washington Irving, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Edgar Allan Poe. By Mantegbosh Letyibelu Irving, Poe, and Hawthorne were arguably some of the most popular writers of the 19th century (Dincer 223; Lauter 2505). All three of them are known for their short essays and their advocacy to make writing a full-fledged and legitimate profession. Their writings show that they were hugely influenced by the Romantic Movement (romanticism); ‘a movement in art, literature, music, philosophy, politics and culture towards focusing on the individual, the subjective, and the spontaneous’ (Dincer 218). Romanticist writing â€Å"encouraged contemplation and self-awareness, direct contact with nature, and a focus on and an exploration of inner feelings† (Dincer 223). Yet, they had distinct writing style, focus, and theme. While Irving was more of a light romantic writer, a writing style characterized by optimism, Poe and Hawthorne are widely considered dark romantic Authors whose writings were characterized by pessimism that sees the world as full of dark, evil, suffering , horror, and mystery. While Irving’s writing focused more on satire and humor, Poe Hawthorne’s writing was more about evil, crime, sin, and mystery. Moreover, Irving seem to be nostalgic aristocrat with huge ‘interest in the landscape, folklore, and the past’ (2506), whereas Poe and Hawthorne had a contrary view of the past (Liptak). Irving Washington (1783-1859), best known for his five volume biographiesShow MoreRelatedSupernatural in American Fiction Essay2928 Words   |  12 PagesMankind would never submit to this. He will immediately turn to the darkness. Drawn by his own cords of fear and longing, man will imagine that he is tired of the light and his small, familiar world.3 No amount of rationalization... or Freudian analysis can overcome the thrill of the chimney-corner whisper or the lonely wood.4 Why? Children will always be afraid of the dark and men will always shudder at what they do not understand, yet everyone will continue to seek it. Perhaps it is because