The Raven by Edgar Allan Poe

[mykwyner]

Actually, Jim Crow does not refer to black people, it is an adjective that describes the types of laws that were put in place in the South (USA) to keep blacks and whites separate. For an interesting discussion, look here: Jim Crow laws - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

[thedaffodils]

Because it expresses so well the desperation of a tortured mind and soul.

First smiling at the strange apparition of the bird, then making fun at its unwordly countenence, then gradually falling into desperation again until he finally asks the raven the question that is most important to him.

And that will sink him into a pit of black desperation as soon as he hears the answer.

But still, he asks it.

Rebel:

Good to learn your understanding on the poem. Thanks a lot.

[thedaffodils]

Actually, Jim Crow does not refer to black people, it is an adjective that describes the types of laws that were put in place in the South (USA) to keep blacks and whites separate. For an interesting discussion, look here: Jim Crow laws - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Hi Mykwyner,

Thank you very much for your info. Some online dictionaries state that.


jim crow - Definition from the Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary

jim crow - Definitions from Dictionary.com

[mykwyner]

You are very welcome.

[NanetteDee]

Because it expresses so well the desperation of a tortured mind and soul.

First smiling at the strange apparition of the bird, then making fun at its unwordly countenance, then gradually falling into desperation again until he finally asks the raven the question that is most important to him.

And that will sink him into a pit of black desperation as soon as he hears the answer.

But still, he asks it.

Simply could not resist to comment on this post.
To me, it itself sounds like a very expressive poem. Perhaps because The Raven is one of my favorite poems as well, and for the same reason.

[luzmaria]

and what about the onomatopeia of the poem? and the catalectic and acatalectic used in the poem?
and how can i make an essay answering the top q's (wh questions)??

how is the author changing the tone? and why?
please a need your help!

[Anglika]

and what about the onomatopeia of the poem? and the catalectic and acatalectic used in the poem?
and how can I make an essay answering these questions??

How is the author changing the tone? and why?
please a need your help!

Start here:

The Poe Decoder - "The Raven"
Literary Analysis of the Raven