“The Tell-Tale Heart,” a short story first published in 1843 by American author Edgar Allan Poe (1809 – 1849), is one of the creepiest stories I’ve ever heard. Give it a listen if you’re up for a fright, and tell me if you don’t agree.
This is a first-person narration, but what do we really know about the murder? We never learn if the killer is a man or a woman. We don’t know who it is. The name of the murderer is never given. Is the old man their friend? Who is the old man? What is their relationship? Questions, questions, questions.
The Tell-Tale Heart Summary
A quick summary: The murderer empathizes with the old man and seems to love him, then the murder happens. Clearly, the murderer’s guilt manifests itself as the old man’s beating heart gets louder and louder from under the floorboards. The tale ends with the murderer confessing to the investigators. So much for all the planning of the perfect murder.
If you prefer, The Poe Museum has a post with “The Tell-Tale Heart in written format.
The Ears Are the Best Way to Enjoy This Tale
Being immersed in the suspense is what I love about listening to this story. Don’t get me wrong. I can do this reading it too. It’s just that I tend to over-analyze it more when I read. Listening to it, I just enjoy the story in all its creepy glory. Does anyone else have the same issue? Please tell me I’m not alone.
“The Tell-Tale Heart” by Edgar Allan Poe, with a dramatic reading by G. M. Danielson copied below, is about twenty minutes long. Some of my recommendations are to listen by fire or candlelight, get cozy under a warm blanket, and dim the lights. This will create the perfect atmosphere to enjoy this creepy Gothic fiction classic.
Thanks for Spending Time With us!
Some final thoughts: First, we’re so glad you stopped by.
Next, if you want to read on, we have some other creepy posts you might enjoy, like The Raven by Edgar Allan Poe. Perhaps you might fancy a bit of armchair travel with some ghost ships. Then check out our post, Cape Disappointment.
Lastly, we hope to see you again soon.
