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The Conversation of Eiros and Charmion

From The Complete Poetical Works of Edgar Allan Poe, by Edgar Allan Poe

Edgar Allan Poe (1809–1849) was an American writer known for tales of mystery and the macabre. 'The Conversation of Eiros and Charmion' was first published in 1839. It is a dialogue between two spirits in the afterlife, recounting the apocalyptic destruction of Earth by a comet that stripped nitrogen from the atmosphere and ignited the world in an instant of flame. Poe structures the story as a philosophical conversation rather than a traditional narrative, allowing him to explore themes of knowledge, prophecy, and the limits of human reason in the face of cosmic forces. The story is worth reading because it combines scientific speculation with metaphysical dread, showing how even the most rational minds must bow before truths they cannot control. This text reflects its era; a few period terms have been modernised.

Band

Blue · Independent readers, confidentTypical starting range: ages 12–14

Length

long · about 1038 words in 5 sections · 2 pictures

Source

The Complete Poetical Works of Edgar Allan Poe, Edgar Allan Poe

First published

see the About page in the reader

Regions

Canada · United States

Included formats

• · Web reader and PDF
• · EPUB for e-readers
• · Home-print sheet
• · Folded booklet
• · Binder edition (8.5 × 11)
• · Worksheet
• · Quick Check (10 questions) with answer key
• · Read-aloud script
• · Teacher’s Edition (members)

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