Overview
These banknotes are a reimagining of American currency and raised the question of who can represent America. Edgar Allan Poe and Dorothy Parker are two famous American writers and poets who embody contrasting themes. Poe, best known for his work The Raven (1845), often wrote about horror and melancholic themes. He also pioneered modern detective fiction and a key figure of Gothic fiction in early American literature. In contrast, Parker was known for her sharp and witty commentary on love and social commentary expressed through poetry and short stories.
Research
To represent each author, their place of birth, writing genre, and historical period was considered. Poe’s banknote features Gothic-style patterns in the borders and motifs, as well as a Gothic era house. Furthermore, his place of birth, Boston, MA and famous work The Raven are included to emphasize his life. While Parker’s banknote consists of art deco style patterns and an art deco style house referencing the 1920s era of New York. She was an important figure of the Algonquin Round Table, a group of NYC writers, critics, and actors who met at the Algonquin Hotel for lunch. On the back of her banknote, a horse is included symbolizing Parker’s affection for these animals and writing about furry companions.
