"Orion" is an epic English poem of love and war. It deserves its place next to "Beowulf" in English literature. Its overtones consist of aesthetically pleasing writing with a Shakespearian tinge, all wrapped in classical Greek mythology. It contains a fine introduction by Andrew Barger, a foreword by the author, Richard Horne, and a fantastic review by Edgar Allan Poe. This is all combined with illustrations and annotations for the first time. As Poe stated, "It is our deliberate opinion that, in all that regards the loftiest and holiest attributes of the true Poetry, 'Orion' has never been excelled. Indeed we feel strongly inclined to say that it has never been equaled." While Charlotte Bronte said, "there are passages I shall recur to again and yet again - passages instinct both with power and beauty." Written in 1843, "Orion" is the greatest epic poem you have never read.
