January 19

Edgar Allen Poe's Birthday and the Poe Toaster

Today is the birthday of the American mystery and macabre author Edgar Allen Poe. Born in 1809, Poe is well known for his dark fiction works such as The Raven and The Tell-Tale Heart. He is considered one of the great writers in the mystery genre, as much of his works are considered pillars in the field.

In 1949, a mysterious person in a dark cloak carrying a silver-tipped cane began to leave letters at Poe's grave. Early in the morning, the person arrives and leaves three red roses and half a bottle of Cognac on the headstone. He or she raises a glass of the liquor in a silent toast to the author and leaves their message for the year in an envelope. This tradition has continued, despite the letters revealing that the original 'toaster' died in 1998.

Though there has been controversy as to what these letters mean, and in some cases viewpoints they reveal, the tradition is a simple one. They honor Poe in a dark and mysterious fashion, much like Poe's great works.

A Way to Celebrate

If you are familiar with Poe's work you know how dark and reflective he was about his own tragic life. Poe agonized over the women in his life, often lamenting them in his works. Death played a huge part in his life, as so many of these women were taken by death. He did not focus on the afterlife much, but rather, proposed macabre stories reflecting tragedy.

To honor him, write a letter reflecting on some part of your life with which you are unhappy. Focus on why you are miserable, and add as much detail as you can. As you write, think about what you want to change, and add that into the letter. In the end, state how to resolve your problem in some way. When you are finished, secure the letter in an envelope. If you choose, seal it with wax.

Tonight, when no one is around, dress in dark clothes and take the letter to a place where you may hide it or burn it. Burn or hide the letter, knowing that it will be received by the universe. If you choose, place a flower on the site where the letter was for each person involved in your problem.