What is American literature?

What first comes to my mind if I am asked about American literature is Edgar Allan Poe. His thoughts are so deep and dark. He uses lots of figurative language. To fully understand his works of literature you have to look at it like a puzzle. There are so many symbolisms and metaphors that make my head spin. I also think of the Harlem renaissance, and all its great artists. The African American culture producing outstanding pieces of poetry. I like the romanticized stories, but feel the realism in more modern stories. The hero isn't always this perfect person. In more modern stories the hero is just an average person that steps up in above average situations. American literature has lots of people, places, and time periods have all influenced it.