with an introduction that discusses the nature of literature, suggesting that what many consider "decadence" in literary works may hold unexpected truths and pleasures. It then introduces stories like "Le Demon de la Perversité" and "Le Chat Noir," which delve into elements of human irrationality and the dark impulses that drive people to commit horrifying acts. The narrator of "Le Demon de la Perversité" reflects on the inexplicable urge to do wrong, while "Le Chat Noir" describes a man's descent into madness as he is haunted by guilt and the remnants of his cruel actions against a beloved pet. These themes of psychological torment and moral ambiguity establish a chilling atmosphere that is characteristic of Poe's work. (This is an automatically generated summary.)