1. Symbolism: Poe often uses color symbolically, with each hue representing a specific idea or emotion. For example, in "The Tell-Tale Heart," the narrator's obsession with the old man's "vulture eye" is linked to the color blue, often associated with madness and paranoia. The red of the blood emphasizes the violence and guilt the narrator feels.
2. Imagery: Colors are a powerful tool for creating vivid imagery, allowing the reader to visualize the setting and atmosphere. The use of color can be especially effective in Poe's work, as he often focuses on creating a sense of dread, isolation, and decay. For example, the dark, oppressive colors of the room in "The Fall of the House of Usher" contribute to the overall Gothic atmosphere.
3. Motif: If Poe consistently uses certain colors across multiple works, they can become recurring motifs that enhance his thematic concerns. For example, the black in "The Raven" and "The Black Cat" represents death, mourning, and the narrator's descent into darkness.
To pinpoint the most accurate term, you'll need to provide a specific example from Poe's work. Tell me which story you have in mind, and I can help you identify the literary term best suited to Poe's use of color in that instance.