The poem “Annabel Lee” by Edgar Allan Poe does not explicitly belong to the horror genre, but it does contain elements that can evoke a sense of dread and melancholy. The poem tells the tragic story of a deep love that transcends even death, which is a hallmark of Poe’s work. While the overall tone is romantic, there are undertones of sorrow, loss, and even a hint of darkness that gives the poem a somewhat eerie quality.
One of the most striking aspects is the way the narrator describes the death of Annabel Lee, attributing it to the jealousy of the angels. This suggests an overwhelming and supernatural force at work, which can be unsettling. Additionally, the imagery associated with the sea, the tomb, and the idea of a love that persists beyond the grave adds to the poem’s haunting atmosphere.
In essence, while “Annabel Lee” isn’t horror in the traditional sense, its themes of death, loss, and eternal love are intertwined with dark elements that align with Poe’s signature style. The lingering feelings of sorrow and the supernatural certainly provide an unsettling quality that can be appreciated by those who enjoy elements of horror in literature.