Eric Mongeon's 4 by Poe

Designer and artist Eric Mongeon has launched an intrepid project consisting of illustrated volumes that collect four short stories by Edgar Allan Poe. 4 by Poe is a rich, extravagant magazine that seeks to raise the ante on artistic adaptations of Poe's tales. In the words of the creator:

This is going to be an illustrated collection for us grown-ups. One that approaches Poe’s stories of murder, mystery, and mayhem on their own beautiful, sensationalistic terms. One that highlights the black humor, celebrates the philosophical insights, and yes, revels in the violence.

A lifelong admirer of Poe’s work, I’m making the collection I always wanted but could never find.

Here’s how it works: Each season for one year, I will release a short story by Poe in the form of an illustrated, individually-bound softcover volume.

Poe worked as a magazine editor, so it seems only natural to adopt the format of a periodical as the organizing principle of a new anthology.

The illustrated examples available on the website exude a dark, somewhat gritty style, almost reminiscent of 19th century sketches on modern steroids. The exceedingly high quality paper and ink will result in a product that won't be cheapest--subscriptions are offered at $150.00 for four volumes, or $50 per individual issue and per single fine art print. The ultra-luxurious nature of this endeavor means it will make some shy away, while more serious admirers of Poe will gladly stampede forward. The first issue is scheduled for a June, 2010, release.

-Grim Blogger