South Attleborough Mass.,
November 2nd 1843.
My Dear Sir , -- I was glad, I assure you, to receive your letter of Octo: 19. I need not tell you that I am grateful for your willing friendship, approval and encouragement. You have given me some confidence in myself which I think may be a very good matter for a Poet.
I do not wish to pass judgment upon others, but no one has a more ardent wish than myself to see somewhat of a Revolution in American Literature. Our country supports too many of these Dish-water Magazines: -- & reads too much blank paper ! The pen and the press have begun almost every reformation: they must begin another. Ours has become a mighty nation; but if its institutions are to be perpetuated, if it is to live long and peacefully -- the minds of the many must be somewhat enlightened; men are to be led to think while they act: and act wisely. The head and the heart of man are wonderful things.
I am glad to learn that you intend to attempt the overthrow of Humbug ! If my hand can aid in the deed, it shall labor willingly. And God bless you in the work, when the time come. I wish to learn something more of your plans whenever it pleases you to communicate them.
Since I wrote to you before I have met rather unpleasant fortune: & circumstances are such as a Poet does not love to write, -- or a Poet to read. -- I will say nothing of them: but I expect that I shall soon have to seek a home for myself, or give up study altogether: I forget whether I told you or not, that I am honestly poor; if I labor therefore for a man "not my kindred," I shall have no leisure for a book or a Poem: -- It is so dark that I cannot see far before me, now; & this is the first time in my life that I have been thrown entirely upon my own powers, and I thank God, that some obstacles are before me to overcome: --
Your confidence and good will are doubly precious for these things: and an occasional sign of regard will be thrice welcome. Direct as before, until I say otherwise, and believe me
Yours sincerely and respectfully,
[A. M. Ide.]
[Signature Missing.]
Edgar A. Poe.
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