The Tell-Tale Heart" by Edgar Allan Poe (1843)
“The Tell-Tale Heart” by Edgar Allan Poe is a classic work of Gothic fiction that explores the dark corners of the human mind. Published in 1843, this short story is a masterful work of psychological horror, dealing with the complexities of guilt, paranoia, and descent into madness. Poe's ability to build tension and create an atmosphere of fear is evident from the opening lines, making this story a timeless exploration of the macabre.