I found readings of Edgar Allan Poe’s infamous poem “The Raven” by Christopher Walken, Vincent Price and James Earl Jones. I have read this poem hundreds of time, but have never heard it like this!
My opinion: Walken’s version is the most expressive. Vincent Price is essential, classic horror voice. James Earl Jones makes “The Raven” sound sexy.
Note 5/27/2018: One of the moments I live for. Waking up the morning after I posted this to find that Vincent Price’s family had shared this post on Facebook.
Walken vs. Jones vs. Price. Who wins?
I liked each for different reasons, but my favorite was James’. Hands down, his voice is dark magic.
I couldn’t choose between them, but I agree. His deep voice vibrated me to my roots.
I especially like Vincent’s version. Did you get to see John Astin’s 1-man show some years ago? The Raven was the centerpiece of the work and, in Astin’s treatment, highlighted Poe’s decent into madness. Much more powerful in context and on stage but here it is: https://youtu.be/ACUxJ6fq2IY
Nice! Thanks for sharing—I had not had the pleasure and appreciate the link. Off to watch it now…
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