Synopsis

The account of the first expedition across the North American Plains to the Pacific Ocean, in 1792.

History

First publication: First six installments, January–June 1840 – Burton's Gentleman's Magazine.

Incomplete. The first six chapters were published, but when Poe was fired from the magazine he refused to complete the novel. The story is presented as if a true account, but was a hoax. No such expedition took place.

Review

Little more than a travelogue, kind of like a Buena Vista film but with good writing. And not finished. I did like some moments, especially the part with the beavers, but otherwise it is just what they saw as they traveled. Not one of Poe’s better efforts, but who knows what it could have been had he finished it? But he didn’t finish and this is all we have. Not that great.