Handcrafted Nautical Decor - Solid Brass Edgar Allan Poe Poem Compass 4"

Featuring one of Edgar Allan Poe’s greatest quotes, from the short story Eleonora, this small brass compass is perfect for a fan of one of America’s greatest poets. Born in 1809, Edgar Poe was abandoned by his father and orphaned when his mother died soon after. He was taken in by the Allans, though never formally adopted, and set about on a difficult path that would reflect in the works throughout his life. As a youth he studied in Scotland and England before returning to the states and attending one year at the University of Virginia. Though this solid brass compass depicts a work from his later life, Poe began writing at an early age, releasing his first book of poetry in 1827. Following his year at university he enlisted in the Army, and in 1830 he enrolled at Westpoint. While at Westpoint Poe continued to write, and after intentionally having himself court-martialed in 1831 he released his third book of poems, with finances raised with help from Westpoint cadets. Striking out on his own Poe moved to New York where, by 1839, he was working as an assistant editor at Burton’s Gentleman’s Magazine and able to publish much of his work. Poe had a difficult time in life, becoming the first well known writer to live on wages from writing alone, and although he may have lacked guidance through life, with this hand compass you will always be able to find your way. In 1842 Eleonora was released, featuring the brilliant quote that has been recreated on this small brass compass. Reminding each and every one of us to dream and follow our own path, with this small brass compass symbolically guiding your way, Edgar Allan Poe’s words ring true throughout time.