The Poetic Interpretation of Death by Emily Dickinson and Edgar Allan Poe: A Systematic Literature Review and Content Analysis

Abstract

In American literature, Emily Dickinson and Edgar Allan Poe stand out as two influential poets in interpreting death with their unique styles. To investigate how these two writers approach death, this study conducts a comprehensive analysis of the poetic interpretations of death in the works of Emily Dickinson and Edgar Allan Poe through systematic literature review and content analysis. The findings reveal that there is a growing scholarly interest in the theme of death on the part of Emily Dickinson, while interest in Poe remains sparse and sporadic. It further revealed that Dickinson’s approach to death is idiosyncratic. In contrast, Poe is recognized for his macabre and gothic exploration of death, often portraying it as a source of horror and fear. The study emphasizes the necessity for further research to delve deeper into the connections and disparities between the two writers’ treatments of death.