The Life of Edgar Allen Poe Edgar Allen Poe was one of the most successful writers of all time. He is known for his tales of the mysterious and macabre. He is reported to be the first master of the short story form (Edgar Allen Poe). About 12 of his works are known for their flawless literary construction. Poe had a rough childhood which definitely contributed to his writing. Poe was born in January 19th of 1809 in Boston. Poe was the son of David Poe, an actor and Eliza Poe, an actress. Poe also had a sister. At age three Poe was orphaned when he father disappeared one night and never returned and his mother died of tuberculosis. Poe then went to a foster h