In Edgar Allan Poe’s poem ‘A Valentine’, the hidden name that is famously believed to be revealed is that of his love interest, Sarah Helen Whitman. Poe wrote this poem as a declaration of affection, and the acrostic structure of the poem cleverly conceals her name within the lines.
The use of an acrostic—where the first letter of each line, when read vertically, spells out a word or name—is a literary technique that adds a layer of intimacy and personal connection. In this case, many literary scholars and enthusiasts have interpreted elements within the poem to approximate the letters of Whitman’s name, making it not just a romantic gesture but also a clever nod to a particular person who held significance in Poe’s life.
This adds depth to the poem, as the reader not only enjoys the aesthetic of the language but also discovers a personal message tucked underneath the surface. The interplay of hidden meanings and emotions is a hallmark of Poe’s work, making ‘A Valentine’ a beautifully intricate expression of love.