In much agreement...

I agree with Megan that Poe has an unbelievably nonchalant attitude toward death. Not only does Poe show this when Pym and Peters rid the boat of Augustus’ body, but more disturbingly when the three of them kill and eat Parker. After killing Parker, Pym finds olives and wine to eat, but there is never any remorse about the death of Parker. This “whatever” attitude also makes for a dark story what with all the death and gruesome details.
I also think that Alexis makes a great point in the theme of reality vs. appearance in NAGP. Perhaps the best example in the novel is the seemingly friendly nature of the Indians who later turn against the “white men.” Another example that sticks out for me is the dark and disgusting reality of the approaching ship with dead people.
After reading this novel, I am reminded of Poe’s outrageously dark way of writing that is evident in the way he presents death and can be seen through the reality vs. appearance theme.