Rather than presenting one monolithic view of Poe's storied and studied career, Peeples (English, College of Charleston) argues that Poe's writing offers itself to varied interpretations, and itself went through several distinct phases of development; thus, Peeples approaches Poe's work chronologically as well as thematically. As one constant, he notes the author's quest for control over his audience, his art, and his career. Also examined are such frequently revisited themes as doubled identity, intellectual competition, and the nature of death. The bibliography is particularly well-annotated, and the index particularly well-organized. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.