Meaning: The quote "With me poetry has not been a purpose, but a passion" is attributed to the American writer Edgar Allan Poe. This quote encapsulates Poe's deep and intense connection to the art of poetry, emphasizing that for him, poetry was not merely a deliberate pursuit or a means to an end, but rather a profound and consuming emotional experience.

Edgar Allan Poe is renowned for his contributions to American literature, particularly in the genres of horror and mystery. Born in 1809, Poe's tumultuous life and tragic death at the age of 40 have contributed to the enduring fascination with his work. He is best known for his dark and macabre tales, such as "The Tell-Tale Heart" and "The Fall of the House of Usher," as well as his haunting poetry, including "The Raven" and "Annabel Lee."

In the quote, Poe reveals that his engagement with poetry goes beyond a mere intellectual pursuit or a calculated endeavor. Instead, it reflects an intense emotional involvement and an intrinsic connection to the creative process. Poe's use of the word "passion" conveys a sense of fervor and emotional intensity, suggesting that his relationship with poetry was driven by deep-seated feelings and a profound personal connection.

This sentiment is reflected in Poe's own life and works. His poetry often delves into themes of love, loss, and the human psyche, capturing the tumultuous emotions that define the human experience. Poe's ability to evoke powerful and haunting imagery through his poetry speaks to the depth of his emotional investment in the art form.

Furthermore, the quote sheds light on the nature of artistic inspiration and creative drive. For Poe, poetry was not a means to an end or a calculated pursuit of fame or success, but rather a deeply personal and emotive endeavor. This sentiment aligns with the Romantic tradition, which emphasized the importance of individual emotion and the sublime in artistic creation.

Poe's assertion that poetry was a passion for him also speaks to the enduring and deeply personal nature of artistic expression. His words convey a sense of authenticity and emotional truth, suggesting that his poetic creations were born out of genuine feeling and personal experience.

In conclusion, Edgar Allan Poe's quote "With me poetry has not been a purpose, but a passion" offers a glimpse into the profound emotional connection that the writer had with the art of poetry. Through these words, Poe captures the intense and deeply personal nature of his engagement with poetry, emphasizing the emotional depth and authenticity that characterized his creative process. This quote serves as a testament to the enduring power of artistic passion and emotional truth in the realm of literature and creative expression.