Tales and Sketches 1831-1842

POE’s tales are his chief contribution to the literature of the world, and his better tales are known and read in every major language. Here is the collection edited by Thomas Ollive Mabbott, for more than a generation recognized as the outstanding Poe scholar in America.Mr. Mabbott tells the origin of each tale, its sources, and publication history; mentions some significant critical opinions; and explains Poe’s references and allusions. The texts given are Poe’s final versions, incorporating manuscript changes made by the author after publication. All authorized texts have been collated, including more than fifty, mostly manuscripts and early printings, not available to earlier editors. The record of verbal variants and the chronological arrangement of the volume permit readers to see the development of Poe’s style, methods, and ideas. Both volumes were completed before Mr. Mabbott’s death; Eleanor D. Kewer and Maureen C. Mabbott have prepared his manuscripts for the printer, filling gaps left and tracking down clues in Mr. Mabbott’s notes.Tales and Sketches carry forward the Mabbott edition of Poe, whose first volume — Poems — was hailed as a monumental accomplishment.