Unraveling the intricacies of a poem often leads to a deeper understanding of its intent, and in the case of a particular poem written in defense of Edgar Allan Poe, the meaning is strikingly clear. Crafted for a singular purpose, the poem seeks to shield Poe from the harsh criticisms and widespread misconceptions propagated by detractors and cultural philistines. The tumult surrounding Poe's reputation began shortly after his demise, when Rufus Griswold, a purported friend and literary executor, published a biography that cast Poe in a decidedly negative light. This portrayal highlighted Poe's personal struggles, particularly his battle with alcohol, painting a portrait that overshadowed his literary achievements.

Griswold's depiction struck a chord with a public all too eager to accept the sensational over the substantive, further entrenching the image of Poe as a troubled soul rather than a pioneering writer. This skewed narrative persisted, clouding Poe's legacy and obscuring his significance in American literature. It was only through the persistent efforts of devoted admirers and scholars that the true brilliance of Poe's literary contributions was brought to light. They championed his originality and recognized him as a writer of profound world importance, gradually restoring his deserved place in the pantheon of great American authors.

Deeply resonating with the life and work of Edgar Allan Poe, the French literary community became his most ardent defenders. Charles Baudelaire, sensing a shared spirit with Poe, embarked on a mission to translate many of Poe’s stories and poems, thereby introducing his dark and intricate worlds to French readers. Baudelaire admired not only Poe’s artistic depth but also his embodiment of the struggles faced by creators in a society indifferent to their genius. This sentiment found further support in Stéphane Mallarmé, who dedicated years to cementing Poe's place in the French literary canon.

Poe’s existence, marked by pervasive poverty and relentless hardship, mirrored the quintessential life of a creator battling against the constraints of a mundane and unsupportive world. This narrative deeply appealed to French poets like Paul Verlaine, who coined the term les poètes maudits, or the accursed poets, to encapsulate the plight of visionary artists in the modern era. Among these poetic figures, Poe was considered one of the most distinctly maudit, embodying the archetype of the misunderstood genius.

Driven by a sense of kinship and a shared struggle against societal indifference, Mallarmé's defense of Poe was not merely a personal endeavor but a broader crusade for all poets. It was a stand against the trivial jealousies of a world that often failed to appreciate the true worth of artistic innovation and emotional depth, highlighting the enduring bond between Poe and his French champions.