Poe involves the reader by playing with their imagination. He leaves enough room for you to fill in the blanks and make the story your own in a way. His unique writing style also grabs your attention and doesn't let go.
Poe saw the short story as a vehicle for delivering a profound and concentrated literary experience. It should grip the reader's attention quickly and maintain that hold until the conclusion, often through elements of mystery and surprise.
Not necessarily. While many Gothic novels incorporate romance elements, it's not a strict requirement. Some focus more on mystery, horror, or supernatural themes.
Perhaps Poe thought it would provide a deeper insight into the criminal mind. Allowing the murderer to read the story might offer a different perspective on the events and characters involved.
The time to finish a story in Poe varies a lot. It depends on factors like the complexity of the plot, your reading speed, and how much time you can dedicate to it. On average, it could range from a few hours to a few days.