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To Frances S. Osgood

A poem by Edgar Allan Poe

Edgar Allan Poe (1809–1849) was an American poet and writer known for his dark tales and haunting verse. This short poem was addressed to Frances Sargent Osgood, a poet and friend of Poe's, and first published in 1845. In eight lines, Poe offers advice on love and authenticity: remain true to yourself, and love will follow naturally. The poem reflects the nineteenth-century style of addressing a reader directly in verse, and its message—that integrity and honesty are the foundation of genuine affection—remains as relevant today as it was nearly two centuries ago. This text is worth a young reader's time because it asks a timeless question and offers an answer grounded in character rather than appearance. This text reflects its era.

Band

Green · Independent readers, earlyTypical starting range: ages 9–11

Length

medium · about 848 words in 6 sections · 3 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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