Edgar Allan Poe: Snifter of Death #4
The standout story in Edgar Allan Poe’s Snifter of Death #4 is “Edgar Allan Poe’s Werewolf of Washington” by Bryce Ingman and Ryan Kelly. It cleverly combines classic horror elements with political satire, using Senator Teddy Cruise as the protagonist unleashed in the nation’s capital. While the story features a werewolf, the underlying message is not disguised. Liberals will find it hilariously funny and appreciate Ingman’s well-crafted script, while Conservatives may criticize it as disrespectful and foolish. From the perspective of this review, the story is simply funny, clever, somewhat insightful, and an excellent example of political satire in comic form.
The second part of “True Tales from the Life of Edgar Allan Poe!” is a brief but impactful two-page story that captures the essence of classic MAD Magazine parody. Poe meets up with Robert Louis Stevenson, and they decide to have a drink at a tavern. Imagining Poe having a drink is quite amusing! However, the drink has a drastic effect on Stevenson, and those familiar with his works can probably guess what happens next—it’s not about discovering treasure on an island. The story delivers a great punchline and evokes the spirit of classic parody.
Rick Geary’s “A Tale of the Plague” may not have the same impact as the other two tales, but it excels in storytelling. Geary’s artistic style gives the story an “everyman” quality that suits the message. Although the characters are distinct, the approach is not that of superhero comics or a gritty “real world.” The inclusion of a fanciful and humorous element, such as the giant rolling and bounding virus, adds to the story’s charm. Additionally, the tale is topical and truthful, conveying a significant message beneath its lighthearted humor.
Overall, Edgar Allan Poe’s Snifter of Death #4 offers a collection of stories that showcase different styles of storytelling and satire. From the political satire disguised in horror to the clever punchline of the Poe-Stevenson encounter and the topical message in Geary’s tale, this issue delivers a well-rounded reading experience.
