Text: Edgar Allan Poe (?), “Review of Illustrated Astronomy” (A), from the Evening Mirror (New York), December 20, 1844, vol. 1, no. 65, p. 2, col. 2, middle


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[page 2, column 2, continued:]

ILLUSTRATED ASTRONOMY, or a Pictorial display of the Astronomical Phenomena of the Universe, with sixty-three colored plates, illustrating a series of familiar discourses on Astronomy. Published by R. W. Barnard & Co., 138 Fulton street, New York. We have made an attentive examination of this delightful and interesting work. It is a desideratum to all who value a familiar, and an accurate acquaintance with the phenomena of the heavenly bodies. Derived from the latest observations of the ablest Astronomers, and prepared by the most competent authority, it is within the comprehension of the most ordinary minds. The attractive style in which the work is produced, combined with its absolute practical utility, renders it a HOLIDAY PRESENT worthy of the reception of very amateur of polite literature. In brief, it requires but inspection to find its way to the parlor table of every lady and gentleman of any taste or refinement.


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Notes:

This brief notice is attributed to Poe, somewhat equivocally, by T. O. Mabbott in his notes at the University of Iowa, saying, “Phraseology and subject alike suggest Poe, but only doubtful. . . reexamine.” W. D. Hull says, “I am inclined to believe this is Poe's . . . The last touch in particular is characteristic of Poe.” The item is not mentioned by Heartman & Canny.

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[S:0 - NYEM, 1844] - Edgar Allan Poe Society of Baltimore - Works - Criticism - Bancroft the Historian and his Impugners (E. A. Poe ?, 1844)