The Insanity of Edgar Allan PoeSeveral aspects of Edgar Allan Poe's life are well known because of his popularity in American literature. Commonly known facts include, but are not limited to, that Poe greatly influenced the genre of horror writing, published many famous poems, and is credited with creating detective novels. One aspect of his life, however, is not as common. Poe suffered from a cognitive disorder currently known as dementia, which, in Poe's case, worsened throughout his life. This had a negative effect on many aspects of Poe's health, but his condition contributed to the stories and poems he created. Edgar Allan Poe's progressive dementia influenced his Gothic spirit, which he defined and used as a starting point for his many literary works. Dementia is a disease that affects brain functions of thinking and behavior, and in some cases, language and judgment. The illness was proven to interfere with the ability to control emotions and behavior, which explains Poe's self-destructive mind that led to his suicide attempt before the death of his wife, Virginia. (NINDS 1) Poe's dementia was progressive, meaning his condition worsened throughout his life. A combination of Poe's drinking habits and manic depression could have contributed. The slight differences in Poe's writing demonstrate the progression of mental decline. For example, his writing progresses from an appreciation of the tragic mysteries of life in his early writings to an almost pure obsession with death. (Merriman 1) It is said that after Virginia's death, Poe turned to drinking more frequently and that his behavior became more erratic. Drinking large amounts of alcohol increases risk fa...... middle of paper ......Web. November 29, 2011. .Bloom, Harold. Edgar Allan Poe. New York: Chelsea House, 1985. Print. Canada, Mark. “Edgar Allan Poe.” The University of North Carolina at Pembroke. Canadian America, 1997. Web. November 29, 2011. “Dementia: Hope Through Research.” National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, March 23, 2011. Web. November 29, 2011. .Merriman, CD "Edgar Allan Poe - Biography and works. Search texts, read online. Discuss." The literary network: classic literature online, poems and quotes. Essays and summaries. Jalic Inc., 2006. Web. November 29. 2011. .