and modern literatures show that alcohol has been around longer than most people think. For example, in the ancient epic of Giglamesh, written 4,000 years ago, one character was the goddess of wine and brewing, Siduri (World literature 136, 139). The Chinese poet Tu Fu wrote about celebrating an old friend's retirement with wine in his poem, "For Wei Pa, in Retirement" (World Literature 528). Prominent figures in more recent literature have died to alcohol related causes. Edgar Allen Poe, author of popular poems such as "The Raven" and "The Bells", died of alcoholism at the age of 40 (Selected Poetry).
             There is both physical and psychological dependence with alcohol addiction. Physical dependence reveals itself in withdrawal symptoms when alcohol intake is interrupted. Symptoms from withdrawal can vary from muscles cramps, convulsions, or nausea. Sometimes, the severity of these symptoms may be so distressing that a person will keep drinking to keep them away. Psychological dependence includes effects on the central nervous system as a depressant. Results of this can include irritability, depression, or hallucinations (Peacock 39).
             As well as changing his or her own life, the lifestyle of an alcoholic usually affects the lif
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