The Oblong Box | Edgar Allan Poe Stories

A man recounts his journey from Charleston to New York aboard a packet ship called “Independence,” where he unexpectedly reunites with his old friend, Cornelius Wyatt, an artist who has booked three state-rooms for himself, his new wife, and sisters. Intrigued by the extra room, the narrator speculates about its purpose, while observing Wyatt’s peculiar behavior and the coldness between him and his supposed wife, who is later revealed as an impostor. Throughout the voyage, the narrator becomes obsessed with the mystery of an oblong box brought on board by Wyatt, believing it to contain an art piece. However, after a hurricane forces them into life boats, Wyatt's desperation to retrieve the box leads to a tragic drowning. It is then revealed that Wyatt’s real wife had died just before the voyage, and her embalmed body, concealed within the box, was intended to be transported discreetly to New York, unbeknownst to most on board. The story explores themes of curiosity, grief, and societal prejudices surrounding death.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ririro-com-short-stories--6577582/support.