Is it true that Edgar Alan Poe was a manic depressent? I need to do a report on him and I cant find it any where that says if he or not? Could someone please help me A.S.A.P??? Thanx!

-- Anonymous, November 19, 2000

Answers

Jenna,

Although this disorder has, most likely, been around for centuries, the term 'manic-depression' is of relatively recent origin (1902). This mental health problem is also known as Bipolar Disorder and while the term "bipolar" originates from the early 19th century, it was not applied in this medical context until the early 20th century or later. According to some medical experts, in contrast to popular belief, this disorder is not solely a biochemical or medical problem and genetics can often be a determining factor in developing the disorder.

As I understand it, this disorder manifests itself in the sufferer's behavior or mood swings with disproportionate highs (mania) and lows (depression). Frankly, the list of symptoms is so long and varied that, definitively, it appears that a positive diagnosis could be applied to almost anyone at one time or another. Most interesting, according to the Mental Help Net... "Feelings of mania (an unnatural "high") or depression caused by medications or substance or alcohol abuse are not typically recognized as bipolar disorder." SO!

Is it true that Edgar Allan Poe was a manic-depressive? Well Jenna... the "truth" is that we cannot and will never know with certainty. Absent a trained psychotherapist and a time machine, we are left, merely, with our own, individual perceptive belief. Unfortunately, the narrow lane of space between factual truth and perceptive truth is an endless forest of human bias and prejudice.

If I could offer any advice toward resolving your question definitively, I would do so. Unfortunately, I can only offer my opinion based on my own personal perceptions with the understanding that I lack both the technical expertise and complete understanding of the fundamentals of this disorder.

NO... I do not believe that Edgar Allan Poe suffered from a bipolar disorder as defined by today's criteria. I find it exceedingly difficult to fully reconcile the clear, obvious and repeated demonstration of his genius with a disorder that has been known to be both debilitating and incapacitating in some sufferers. Sorry Jenna, that is the best I can offer you! Good Luck.

Regards,

-- Anonymous, November 20, 2000

Is it true that i own everyone? fuck ya it is!

-- Anonymous, March 25, 2002