message of "The Raven"

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What is the message of "The Raven?"

-- Anonymous, June 04, 2002

Answers

Poe's own description in The Philosophy of Composition at www.eapoe.org is helpful. A mournful and never ending remembrance. No healing, no complete consolation, no release.

-- Anonymous, June 06, 2002

I have personally no right to claim myself to be a scholar, but it seemed to me, after reading the poem numerous times, that it is established that the Raven is a messenger from a heavenly or Demonic plane. Poe inquires of it, whether or not he will bask in eternal salvation (heaven), and meet his beloved wife. The Raven answers nevermore at each instance. The final line claims that his soul will be lifted "Nevermore" thus saying he will eternally remain where he is. Correct me if I am mistaken.

-- Anonymous, February 16, 2005

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