While John Allan is often described as a father figure to Poe, their relationship was complex and strained. Here's why, based on Poe's letters:
* John Allan's inconsistent affection: Poe's letters reveal a desire for paternal affection and recognition from John Allan, which he seemed to receive inconsistently. Allan often seemed to favor Poe but also withdrew his love and support, creating a sense of instability for Poe.
* Financial dependence: Poe relied on Allan for financial support, which created a power imbalance in their relationship. Poe's letters often express his gratitude for Allan's generosity but also his resentment at his dependence.
* Academic expectations: Allan expected Poe to excel academically, particularly in his chosen field of law. Poe's letters show his struggles to meet these expectations and the pressure he felt from Allan.
* A sense of abandonment: The relationship was ultimately broken when Allan refused to support Poe's desire to join the military and later refused to assist him financially when Poe faced hardship.
It's crucial to remember that these are just glimpses into a complex relationship. While John Allan raised Poe, their relationship was more akin to that of a patron and protégé, marked by a mix of affection, disappointment, and dependence.