"[Poe] was not a man who held his liquor well," Walsh observes with a touch of wry humor. There's reason to suspect Poe might have been sensitive to alcohol, as even a modest amount could overwhelm and embarrass him. Yet, Walsh does not depict Poe as a frail, decaying figure. On the contrary, he describes Poe as vigorous and lively, a person who, more often than not, was diligent and abstinent. Walsh recalls a youthful Poe, athletic and full of life, suggesting he would have defended himself fiercely if accosted.

The Sincerity of Love

Walsh is also convinced of Poe's genuine affection for Shelton. Although Poe might have entertained hopes of utilizing some of Shelton's wealth to launch a magazine, his ardor persisted even after discovering her finances would be absorbed into a trust fund. Walsh paints a portrait of Poe as a man deeply in love, anticipating the love and stability marrying Shelton promised. Despite being far from flawless—with a notorious penchant for flirtations and the occasional drinking spree—Poe's public commitment to a Richmond temperance society spoke volumes of his earnest affection for his childhood sweetheart. Walsh interprets this as evidence of Shelton's positive influence, casting a spotlight on the profound love between Poe and Shelton, a love that underscores the haunting narrative of Midnight Dreary, where an inevitable doom looms over them.

A Man with Purpose

Within the pages of Midnight Dreary, Poe emerges not as the notorious, tempestuous eccentric credited with chilling tales but as a dignified, albeit impoverished, figure. Even as his clothes grew threadbare, he wore them with pride. More than a mere wanderer, Poe was a man with a mission—seeking to settle in his childhood city of Richmond and renew his editorial successes with a new magazine. His deliberate choices were weighted with meaning and ambition. Though cruel circumstances may have thwarted his dreams, Walsh highlights the promising detail that Poe was actually beginning to enjoy financial success from his lectures, hinting at a brighter horizon.

Poe's Human Side

The Poe depicted in Midnight Dreary is a man of charm, capable of wooing Shelton with grace after initial missteps. Walsh suggests that Poe could have transformed potential adversaries, like Shelton's children Ann and Southall, into allies, showcasing his ability to endear himself, especially to the young. Walsh's portrayal rings true, depicting the multifaceted nature of Poe—his strengths, vulnerabilities, and the possibility of rekindling Shelton's affections.

"Close familiarity with all the surrounding circumstances," Walsh asserts, "and with one indisputable fact in particular, amply demonstrates that much of their old love had blossomed again, flourishing in a way that may have taken both by surprise." The theme of love pulses through Midnight Dreary, capturing its emotional gravity. It seems almost inevitable that Poe would be drawn to Shelton—financial struggles were a constant shadow. Yet, Poe's newfound financial stability from his lectures meant that Shelton's wealth was no longer a necessity. Furthermore, she would forfeit most of it upon marrying him.

The Charm of Shelton

Though Shelton's photograph in Midnight Dreary might paint a stern image, Walsh insists that beneath this exterior was a woman of enchanting conversation and sparkling wit, traits that charmed Poe. Her laughter illuminated Poe's life, which had often been shrouded in sorrow. It's little wonder he rediscovered the affection he felt for her as a youth, seeing once again the girl he loved before life's hardships intervened. His renewed love was profound, fueled by memories of his late wife, whose tragic death had left a painful void Shelton began to heal.

Shelton, in return, saw in Poe a matured...