Graveyard Poets

I've frequently been asked about my personal tastes and influences (please see the post Gothic Folk for more information on my favorite music artists).  I have been a voracious reader my entire life and the bibliophile within me loves all books however I must admit a weakness for dark writings. 

I have always loved dark fantasy, horror and science fiction, however the Graveyard Poets have had the greatest influence on me as a writer.  The Graveyard Poets were a group of 18th century English poets who focused on melancholy funereal subjects.  Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard by Thomas Gray is one of the finest pieces of writing from this group and remains a constant favorite.  I highly recommend reading the great works of the Graveyard Poets especially for anyone looking for a chilling pre-Halloween read.