- Five out of six inmates I'm writing to use emoticons. I immediately discount anyone in my real life who sends me smiley faces. I, of course, have to be more tolerant of inmates that do so, as I want them to keep writing. Still, interesting thing to note.
- The handwriting of all of the inmates that write to me is extremely legible and neat. There are no cross-outs or mistakes on the page. One could speculate that this is because they have not had access to a computer or typewriter in so long that they have concentrated on their actual handwriting. Makes me sad to think that actual letter writing is such a lost art. Thinking about it, there are some very close friends I have, that I have no idea what their handwriting even looks like. We primarily deal with each other through email, texting and other electronic means. What does this say about us as a society?
- Again, five out of six inmates I am writing to are extremely well-read, educated and like to quote literature and/or movies. (Amongst them are a doctor, teacher, writer, and businessman.) Those same five out of six are extremely complimentary and charming. Those same have been classifed in the press as sociopaths.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Friday, February 27, 2009
Letters from the Inside, Michael Swango, #3
Hi KK---
Well, this time your letter came through unscathed. Very glad to finally year from you---so much to talk about:
Your questions on rules & procedures here are right on point--so let me answer those first, as I am very interested in reading your articles/stories and blog.
>Obviously, your typed letter is just fine. If I had regular access to a typewriter I would certainly use it as well. Even though I am a bit out of practice--my typing is faster than longhand.
>You can send printouts from the next 2-3 pages at a time---but your method of pasting them into the body of your letter is far superior. I have a few friends who send me info/items off the net from time to time--and they have all adopted that method.
: Your letters can be as many pages as needed with articles, etc. simply incorporated into the letter as you did.
>you can send an actual newspaper article cut-out, but again--only 2 or 3 at a time to be safe. Once again - if they can be scanned and put into a letter, so much the easier & better.
>Insofar as content of your relationship column or anything else you've written-- absolutely no problem with any "curses" or risqué material....or more...Again, no problem. So please send when you can. A "darker Sex-and-the-City-type thing sounds like a welcome relief from the sometimes way too saccharine content of the original!
>Finally, as mentioned above but to repeat--I would not mind at all if you would share your blog [redacted] with me.
If you do wish to editorialize or comment on your blog [about my letters], that is fine with me.
And since I know that finding time to write can be difficult, feel free to simply send me some blog pages & with a "Hi Michael" at the top, in lieu of a full letter, etc.
So-there it is. Appreciate your acumen in asking those questions.
* * *
Now - turning (finally) to content :)
I have no problems answering questions about my situation here. It is what it is--and I can assure you, is far better than any image you might have- Truly.
You might be surprised that my days here are very busy by choice. Your card intrigued me when I received it, but I do not answer every letter because there is only so much time to write in any given day or week. A few details: I have a TV- so I am able to keep up on news & politics, etc. It was amazing following Obama from the very beginning, before he even ran for Illinois senator in '04.
There is a modest library with books--but subscriptions to magazines & newspapers are allowed; and paperback books can be sent in--so long as they are sent directly from Amazon.com/B&N.com/a bookstore/or the publisher. Amazon.com gives very reliable & fast delivery.
Obviously, since we just met :-) I would not ask you for anything now! However - should you ever run across or know about a book [or magazine article you can't get off the net] that you want to share with me or think I would benefit from - feel free to have it sent. Thanks!
I know of two friend in the hinterlands who literally (almost...) would "die for" the chance to see all the newly released films, which more & more is possible only in New York and L.A.
Thank you for your comments on "The Wrestler". You are actually the first person I know (besides the TV & print critics) who has actually seen the film. Clearly, the critics got it right, from your comments. As previously mentioned, I have been a huge Mickey Rourke fan for as long as I can remember. Even during that long stretch when he was a Hollywood pariah. By the time you receive this, we will know if he won the Academy Award on Sunday (z-zz). The cognoscenti say it's between Rourke & Sean Penn in "Milk".
Do give me your capsule comments on "Revolutionary Road" and "The Reader" if and when you see them.
And if you see "tons of movies"; then we have tons to talk about. you mentioned that you just finished watching "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner?" Talk about a good year (1967) for films: Besides "Dinner", "In the Heat of the Night", "Bonnie and Clyde", and "The Graduate."
I recently saw two outstanding films from 1973: "Save the Tiger" and "The Last Detail".
Since you see films via NETFLIX-may I ask you to order a particular film when you get the chance--and tell me what you think: "PRIMER" 04.
This is a film made on a shoestring budget/78 minutes/ but a highly original film about time travel which takes place in a corporate business park & self-storage facility! I have seen it once- but without the benefit of multiple viewings and the chance to review certain portions. Whatever you think it might be like, it's not.
Anyway - if you get the chance, perhaps between "The Conversation" (1974) and Nashville" '75 or whichever classic you have reached by then!
The pool story was hilarious. I can totally see the insane battle for 12 lounge chairs. "I considered 'roiding up" - love it.
Did not get to travel destinations and Africa (my years there) - but will in my next letter. Must get this in the mail so it goes out today. However- if I were a travel agent: the first four places in Africa I would recommend: Egypt (Giza); Cape Town; Zanzibar; Djibouti. [Rationale to follow!]
We didn't get to the econony, either. That's another fascinating story. I've watched developing these 3-4 years. Hope your business manages to weather the bad times. Keep me posted.
Take care, KK, and hope to hear from you again son. Again, look forward to reading your blog, any articles, and definitely your "life stories" in your "darker-version-Sex-and-the-City" column.
As you have probably gleaned, I am quite direct - no subject is off limits. Life is far too short to not talk about whatever you want. So ask away as you wish..
Take care & talk to you soon.
Yours,
Michael
Well, this time your letter came through unscathed. Very glad to finally year from you---so much to talk about:
Your questions on rules & procedures here are right on point--so let me answer those first, as I am very interested in reading your articles/stories and blog.
>Obviously, your typed letter is just fine. If I had regular access to a typewriter I would certainly use it as well. Even though I am a bit out of practice--my typing is faster than longhand.
>You can send printouts from the next 2-3 pages at a time---but your method of pasting them into the body of your letter is far superior. I have a few friends who send me info/items off the net from time to time--and they have all adopted that method.
: Your letters can be as many pages as needed with articles, etc. simply incorporated into the letter as you did.
>you can send an actual newspaper article cut-out, but again--only 2 or 3 at a time to be safe. Once again - if they can be scanned and put into a letter, so much the easier & better.
>Insofar as content of your relationship column or anything else you've written-- absolutely no problem with any "curses" or risqué material....or more...Again, no problem. So please send when you can. A "darker Sex-and-the-City-type thing sounds like a welcome relief from the sometimes way too saccharine content of the original!
>Finally, as mentioned above but to repeat--I would not mind at all if you would share your blog [redacted] with me.
If you do wish to editorialize or comment on your blog [about my letters], that is fine with me.
And since I know that finding time to write can be difficult, feel free to simply send me some blog pages & with a "Hi Michael" at the top, in lieu of a full letter, etc.
So-there it is. Appreciate your acumen in asking those questions.
* * *
Now - turning (finally) to content :)
I have no problems answering questions about my situation here. It is what it is--and I can assure you, is far better than any image you might have- Truly.
You might be surprised that my days here are very busy by choice. Your card intrigued me when I received it, but I do not answer every letter because there is only so much time to write in any given day or week. A few details: I have a TV- so I am able to keep up on news & politics, etc. It was amazing following Obama from the very beginning, before he even ran for Illinois senator in '04.
There is a modest library with books--but subscriptions to magazines & newspapers are allowed; and paperback books can be sent in--so long as they are sent directly from Amazon.com/B&N.com/a bookstore/or the publisher. Amazon.com gives very reliable & fast delivery.
Obviously, since we just met :-) I would not ask you for anything now! However - should you ever run across or know about a book [or magazine article you can't get off the net] that you want to share with me or think I would benefit from - feel free to have it sent. Thanks!
I know of two friend in the hinterlands who literally (almost...) would "die for" the chance to see all the newly released films, which more & more is possible only in New York and L.A.
Thank you for your comments on "The Wrestler". You are actually the first person I know (besides the TV & print critics) who has actually seen the film. Clearly, the critics got it right, from your comments. As previously mentioned, I have been a huge Mickey Rourke fan for as long as I can remember. Even during that long stretch when he was a Hollywood pariah. By the time you receive this, we will know if he won the Academy Award on Sunday (z-zz). The cognoscenti say it's between Rourke & Sean Penn in "Milk".
Do give me your capsule comments on "Revolutionary Road" and "The Reader" if and when you see them.
And if you see "tons of movies"; then we have tons to talk about. you mentioned that you just finished watching "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner?" Talk about a good year (1967) for films: Besides "Dinner", "In the Heat of the Night", "Bonnie and Clyde", and "The Graduate."
I recently saw two outstanding films from 1973: "Save the Tiger" and "The Last Detail".
Since you see films via NETFLIX-may I ask you to order a particular film when you get the chance--and tell me what you think: "PRIMER" 04.
This is a film made on a shoestring budget/78 minutes/ but a highly original film about time travel which takes place in a corporate business park & self-storage facility! I have seen it once- but without the benefit of multiple viewings and the chance to review certain portions. Whatever you think it might be like, it's not.
Anyway - if you get the chance, perhaps between "The Conversation" (1974) and Nashville" '75 or whichever classic you have reached by then!
The pool story was hilarious. I can totally see the insane battle for 12 lounge chairs. "I considered 'roiding up" - love it.
Did not get to travel destinations and Africa (my years there) - but will in my next letter. Must get this in the mail so it goes out today. However- if I were a travel agent: the first four places in Africa I would recommend: Egypt (Giza); Cape Town; Zanzibar; Djibouti. [Rationale to follow!]
We didn't get to the econony, either. That's another fascinating story. I've watched developing these 3-4 years. Hope your business manages to weather the bad times. Keep me posted.
Take care, KK, and hope to hear from you again son. Again, look forward to reading your blog, any articles, and definitely your "life stories" in your "darker-version-Sex-and-the-City" column.
As you have probably gleaned, I am quite direct - no subject is off limits. Life is far too short to not talk about whatever you want. So ask away as you wish..
Take care & talk to you soon.
Yours,
Michael
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Something Interesting Transpires RE: Richard Allen Davis
Several people have expressed interest and concern about why I am writing to prisoners. I tried to explain in my first entry, but something happened today that will illustrate what my rationale was originally.
Letters from prisoners singly may not be considered an art or literary project. But I was hoping, that held cumulatively and over a course of time, some sort of unexpected narrative would form. Of course there was no reason to know for sure if this would happen, but I had the sense that somehow this could be made into an art show or book. The project is still in its infancy stage, so who knows. Right now I'm just a woman who writes to a certain type of inmate, never offering any support for what they did and hopes that some sort of narrative will emerge eventually.
People are inherently interested in what makes others do heinous things. If they weren't, CSI, AMW, 48 Hour Mystery, etc. would not be so popular. I find that friends are particularly interested in seeing the handwriting of various inmates.
When writing to Swango I signed myself KK not realizing until I researched him further later that he had a fiance he tried to poison called 'KK' who eventually killed herself. See? A bit of an interesting unexpected "narrative." Narrative isn't the exact right word here, but I'm hoping you will see my point.
Anyway, yesterday I posted Richard Allen Davis' letter to me. A fellow blogger--who I don't know and hadn't heard of--sent me an email last night. I post it, my response and her subsequent reply here. Turns out she was best friends with Davis' young victim.
***
K,
Just signed into [my blog.] You're on my favorites list & the title of your most recent entry caught my eye, "Letters from the Inside, Richard Allen Davis, #1."
Davis abducted my best friend Polly in October of 1993. On December 4 of that year, my 13th birthday, it was announced that he had, in fact, killed her.
With that said, I am morbidly curious about the letters you've exchanged with the guy. If you're not going to allow me onto the favorites list, I totally get it, just... Could you please email me entries including him?
Also, if you're skeptical of me or anything, I have attached a photo of me and Polly from June of 1993... This one is from our 6th grade pool party.
Thanks so much,
[redacted]***
My reply:
Hi. My God! I'm so sorry to hear that. Were you at the slumber party that the abduction occurred at?
I only have gotten one letter from him and frankly, out of all the ones I have written to, something is just so off about his--although not outwardly--that I don't think I will write to him again, although if there are any things you want me to find out from him, I certainly will. Seeing that I already have some sort of a rapport going with him, I'd gladly try to ask him any questions you'd like.
I will past in the entry into a separate email. You can feel free to share it with any family or friends of Polly's.
KK
***
K,
You're right on the money when you say there's something off about Davis... I mean, obviously, right? Definitely one sandwich short of a picnic!
I was not at the slumber party the night Polly was kidnapped. I was recovering from a cold at the time, so my mom said no. I found out Polly had been abducted by calling her house the next day to find out what I'd missed. I did testify at the trial as to what she and I had done in the summer of 1993, though, in order to firm up a stalking or premeditation charge. I am not positive of all the special circumstance charges but there were many.
You know... I don't think there's anything Davis could say that would bring me peace or clarity. I believe much of what he says are lies in order to entertain himself. I don't blame the guy, really, because I'd be bored in prison, too. My hope for Davis is that he falls asleep each night and is haunted by Polly's beautiful smile. I'd like him to live a long life, actually, and to be haunted by the decision he made to kill my friend.
If you'd like to post my emails to you, that's fine. I don't mind if you keep my diary name and name on there... I have most of my entries favorites only, so no biggie.
Thanks for sending the letter from Davis in a separate email.
Be well,
[redacted]
Letters from prisoners singly may not be considered an art or literary project. But I was hoping, that held cumulatively and over a course of time, some sort of unexpected narrative would form. Of course there was no reason to know for sure if this would happen, but I had the sense that somehow this could be made into an art show or book. The project is still in its infancy stage, so who knows. Right now I'm just a woman who writes to a certain type of inmate, never offering any support for what they did and hopes that some sort of narrative will emerge eventually.
People are inherently interested in what makes others do heinous things. If they weren't, CSI, AMW, 48 Hour Mystery, etc. would not be so popular. I find that friends are particularly interested in seeing the handwriting of various inmates.
When writing to Swango I signed myself KK not realizing until I researched him further later that he had a fiance he tried to poison called 'KK' who eventually killed herself. See? A bit of an interesting unexpected "narrative." Narrative isn't the exact right word here, but I'm hoping you will see my point.
Anyway, yesterday I posted Richard Allen Davis' letter to me. A fellow blogger--who I don't know and hadn't heard of--sent me an email last night. I post it, my response and her subsequent reply here. Turns out she was best friends with Davis' young victim.
***
K,
Just signed into [my blog.] You're on my favorites list & the title of your most recent entry caught my eye, "Letters from the Inside, Richard Allen Davis, #1."
Davis abducted my best friend Polly in October of 1993. On December 4 of that year, my 13th birthday, it was announced that he had, in fact, killed her.
With that said, I am morbidly curious about the letters you've exchanged with the guy. If you're not going to allow me onto the favorites list, I totally get it, just... Could you please email me entries including him?
Also, if you're skeptical of me or anything, I have attached a photo of me and Polly from June of 1993... This one is from our 6th grade pool party.
Thanks so much,
[redacted]***
My reply:
Hi. My God! I'm so sorry to hear that. Were you at the slumber party that the abduction occurred at?
I only have gotten one letter from him and frankly, out of all the ones I have written to, something is just so off about his--although not outwardly--that I don't think I will write to him again, although if there are any things you want me to find out from him, I certainly will. Seeing that I already have some sort of a rapport going with him, I'd gladly try to ask him any questions you'd like.
I will past in the entry into a separate email. You can feel free to share it with any family or friends of Polly's.
KK
***
K,
You're right on the money when you say there's something off about Davis... I mean, obviously, right? Definitely one sandwich short of a picnic!
I was not at the slumber party the night Polly was kidnapped. I was recovering from a cold at the time, so my mom said no. I found out Polly had been abducted by calling her house the next day to find out what I'd missed. I did testify at the trial as to what she and I had done in the summer of 1993, though, in order to firm up a stalking or premeditation charge. I am not positive of all the special circumstance charges but there were many.
You know... I don't think there's anything Davis could say that would bring me peace or clarity. I believe much of what he says are lies in order to entertain himself. I don't blame the guy, really, because I'd be bored in prison, too. My hope for Davis is that he falls asleep each night and is haunted by Polly's beautiful smile. I'd like him to live a long life, actually, and to be haunted by the decision he made to kill my friend.
If you'd like to post my emails to you, that's fine. I don't mind if you keep my diary name and name on there... I have most of my entries favorites only, so no biggie.
Thanks for sending the letter from Davis in a separate email.
Be well,
[redacted]
Friday, February 20, 2009
Letters from the Inside, Richard Allen Davis, #1
He is probably the scariest of them all. He is in San Quentin. Read about him: Richard Allen Davis
***
DEAR KELLY,
HELLO BACK! I JUST GOT YOUR CARD AND THANK YOU, FOR THE PERSONAL TOUCH AND THE THOUGHT AND CONSIDERATION. THOUGH I WANT TO SAY THAT YOUR CARD IS VER NICE AND NOT JUST WITH YOU YOURSELF, THANK YOU.
YOU WORK IN PUBLIC RELATIONS, WELL I HOPE THAT THINGS ARE GOING GOOD FOR YOU AND YOUR COMPANY.
YES, IT DOS GET FRUSTRATING AT TIMES TRYING TO STAY IN THE LOOP WITH FAMILY. THEN AGAIN MY FAMILY NEVER WAS "CLOSE" WITH EACH OTHER. WITH THE YEARS THAT HAVE PASSED, I MIOSTLY ONLY STAY IN CONTACT WITH A NIECE. THOUGH SHE'S MARRIED ADN WITH A CHILD, LIVING HER OWN LIFE. SO I DO UNDERSTAND WHEN CONTACT HAAS A LONG DURATION.
AS TO FRIENDS, WELL I UNDERSTAND GOOD INTENTIONS. BY THAT I MEANT THAT SOME SAY WITHIN A YEAR THEY LOSE INTEREST OR -LOL- FIND THEMSELVES SOMEONE MORE INTERESTING. I CAN'T BLAME THEM, NOR DO I HOLD IT AGAINST THEM.
I WOULD VERY MUCH LIKE TO CORRESPOND WITH YOU AND IT WOE NICE TO GET SOME STORIES WRITTEN BY YOU. I DO WANT TO SAY THAT I AM VERY IMPRESSED WITH YOU HAVING BEEN PUBLISHED.
NOT THAT I AM TRYING TO RUN SOME SCAM ON YOU. i GET ALL THE PAPER-ENVELOPES I NEED FROM MY ATTORNEY, THOUGH I COULD USE SOME STAMPS, IF YOU COULD.
I DO NOT EXPECT THOUGH THE LIMIT IS 40 STAMPS, WHATEVER YOU CAN HELP ME WITH IS GREATLY THANKFUL.
I DO SEND MY BEST THOUGHTS AND WARMEST WISHES TOO YOU, ALSO I HOPE YOU HAD A DECENT PAST WEEKEND OF THOUGHTS.
MAIL DOES TAKE ABOUT TEN WORKING DAYS TO GET TO US, SO PLEASE HAVE PATIENCE.
SENDING MINE TOO YOU SINCERELY,
RICHARD
***
***
DEAR KELLY,
HELLO BACK! I JUST GOT YOUR CARD AND THANK YOU, FOR THE PERSONAL TOUCH AND THE THOUGHT AND CONSIDERATION. THOUGH I WANT TO SAY THAT YOUR CARD IS VER NICE AND NOT JUST WITH YOU YOURSELF, THANK YOU.
YOU WORK IN PUBLIC RELATIONS, WELL I HOPE THAT THINGS ARE GOING GOOD FOR YOU AND YOUR COMPANY.
YES, IT DOS GET FRUSTRATING AT TIMES TRYING TO STAY IN THE LOOP WITH FAMILY. THEN AGAIN MY FAMILY NEVER WAS "CLOSE" WITH EACH OTHER. WITH THE YEARS THAT HAVE PASSED, I MIOSTLY ONLY STAY IN CONTACT WITH A NIECE. THOUGH SHE'S MARRIED ADN WITH A CHILD, LIVING HER OWN LIFE. SO I DO UNDERSTAND WHEN CONTACT HAAS A LONG DURATION.
AS TO FRIENDS, WELL I UNDERSTAND GOOD INTENTIONS. BY THAT I MEANT THAT SOME SAY WITHIN A YEAR THEY LOSE INTEREST OR -LOL- FIND THEMSELVES SOMEONE MORE INTERESTING. I CAN'T BLAME THEM, NOR DO I HOLD IT AGAINST THEM.
I WOULD VERY MUCH LIKE TO CORRESPOND WITH YOU AND IT WOE NICE TO GET SOME STORIES WRITTEN BY YOU. I DO WANT TO SAY THAT I AM VERY IMPRESSED WITH YOU HAVING BEEN PUBLISHED.
NOT THAT I AM TRYING TO RUN SOME SCAM ON YOU. i GET ALL THE PAPER-ENVELOPES I NEED FROM MY ATTORNEY, THOUGH I COULD USE SOME STAMPS, IF YOU COULD.
I DO NOT EXPECT THOUGH THE LIMIT IS 40 STAMPS, WHATEVER YOU CAN HELP ME WITH IS GREATLY THANKFUL.
I DO SEND MY BEST THOUGHTS AND WARMEST WISHES TOO YOU, ALSO I HOPE YOU HAD A DECENT PAST WEEKEND OF THOUGHTS.
MAIL DOES TAKE ABOUT TEN WORKING DAYS TO GET TO US, SO PLEASE HAVE PATIENCE.
SENDING MINE TOO YOU SINCERELY,
RICHARD
***
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Letters from the Inside, Thomas Bart Whitaker, #1
Whitaker was recently on Oprah. That is how I heard about him. Since watching him on the show and learning about his father's book about forgiving him for hiring someone to kill his whole family, I have researched him more & decided to write to him. He is currently on Death Row in Texas.
You may want to read about him so I suggest a quick Google for "Bart Whitaker."
To note, I never write supporting these inmates. I don't offer any opinions to them at all about their crimes and do not mention them. I write a very bland letter discussing general topics like the weather, current events, etc.
Also, he has a really well-written blog at: Minutes Before Six.
Here is his first letter to me:
Dear Miss K:
Thank you very much for your kind letter, which I received last night. It is always nice to receive positive correspondence, which acts as a sort of counterbalance to the missives from the Jesus freaks. I am afraid that I have developed some rather thick callouses in regards to this whole pen-pal thing, but your letter bypassed my normal aversions. I suppose the primary reason for this is that I've never really spoken with a "real" writer before, [ed.: I never told him I was a "writer." I merely said I had a column in a NY paper for a short period and enjoy blogging myself.] and only a fool passes up an opportunity to learn from the knowledgeable. I am a mewling, stinky infant in the world of writing, in other words. I think your card's photograph was actually rather endearing [ed.: I sent him a card in which I am wearing a black and white striped dress standing against a black and white striped wall.] Also shows you have a sense of humour, and I liked the metaphor. I, too, always seem to wear stripes at right angles to the world around me. Not sure if that was your intent, but I rather liked it.
Ah, Oprah, Oprah...a fat cow by any other name, etc., etc. The media and their descent into gross sensationalim is a rather sore topic for me, Kelly. One day, someone will address some of the real issues in my case, instead of reaching onlly for the low hanging fruit. Anyways, Columbia, huh? [ed.: I told him about my recent application process.] You must be quite brilliant, for that is not a place for those with normal intellects. Non-fiction is what interests you? What sort of themes would you prefer to write a book about? What do you do in Public Relations? I would, indeed, enjoy reading some of the articles you have wrtiten for the newspaper. That must be an incredible thing, to see your words given life like that. In a place like NYC, no less. I have been there on vacation, naturally. Tried not to be the annoying, gawking country yokel that seemed to infest all of the normal tourist magents. Went to some decent clubs, got stupid in that way all 20-somethings are knows for. Where in the City do you live? I hope the 20-questions routine does not offend you... I'm a curious person by nature. Just tell me to mind my own business if I cross a line.
You asked about my arm, and, alas, it is still royally f--ed, to use the appropriate medical terminology. I've badgered theminto a second operation, scheduled for sometime in the next 4-6 weeks. Maybe Igor et.al. will get it right this time. I am still looking for an attorney willing to help me sue these Republican wankers, but no luck so far. If there is some dealy in my future responses, it is due to this, and this alone.
Well, I never really know how far to go in these introductory letters. I hope this finds you well, and I want to thank you again for the kind words. That means more than I could ever put into words. Until next time.
Yours,
Thomas
***Another interesting thing to note is that a huge #3 was stamped on the envelope.
I will try to get this letter and Susan Smith's scanned as both of their handwriting is very distinctive.
You may want to read about him so I suggest a quick Google for "Bart Whitaker."
To note, I never write supporting these inmates. I don't offer any opinions to them at all about their crimes and do not mention them. I write a very bland letter discussing general topics like the weather, current events, etc.
Also, he has a really well-written blog at: Minutes Before Six.
Here is his first letter to me:
Dear Miss K:
Thank you very much for your kind letter, which I received last night. It is always nice to receive positive correspondence, which acts as a sort of counterbalance to the missives from the Jesus freaks. I am afraid that I have developed some rather thick callouses in regards to this whole pen-pal thing, but your letter bypassed my normal aversions. I suppose the primary reason for this is that I've never really spoken with a "real" writer before, [ed.: I never told him I was a "writer." I merely said I had a column in a NY paper for a short period and enjoy blogging myself.] and only a fool passes up an opportunity to learn from the knowledgeable. I am a mewling, stinky infant in the world of writing, in other words. I think your card's photograph was actually rather endearing [ed.: I sent him a card in which I am wearing a black and white striped dress standing against a black and white striped wall.] Also shows you have a sense of humour, and I liked the metaphor. I, too, always seem to wear stripes at right angles to the world around me. Not sure if that was your intent, but I rather liked it.
Ah, Oprah, Oprah...a fat cow by any other name, etc., etc. The media and their descent into gross sensationalim is a rather sore topic for me, Kelly. One day, someone will address some of the real issues in my case, instead of reaching onlly for the low hanging fruit. Anyways, Columbia, huh? [ed.: I told him about my recent application process.] You must be quite brilliant, for that is not a place for those with normal intellects. Non-fiction is what interests you? What sort of themes would you prefer to write a book about? What do you do in Public Relations? I would, indeed, enjoy reading some of the articles you have wrtiten for the newspaper. That must be an incredible thing, to see your words given life like that. In a place like NYC, no less. I have been there on vacation, naturally. Tried not to be the annoying, gawking country yokel that seemed to infest all of the normal tourist magents. Went to some decent clubs, got stupid in that way all 20-somethings are knows for. Where in the City do you live? I hope the 20-questions routine does not offend you... I'm a curious person by nature. Just tell me to mind my own business if I cross a line.
You asked about my arm, and, alas, it is still royally f--ed, to use the appropriate medical terminology. I've badgered theminto a second operation, scheduled for sometime in the next 4-6 weeks. Maybe Igor et.al. will get it right this time. I am still looking for an attorney willing to help me sue these Republican wankers, but no luck so far. If there is some dealy in my future responses, it is due to this, and this alone.
Well, I never really know how far to go in these introductory letters. I hope this finds you well, and I want to thank you again for the kind words. That means more than I could ever put into words. Until next time.
Yours,
Thomas
***Another interesting thing to note is that a huge #3 was stamped on the envelope.
I will try to get this letter and Susan Smith's scanned as both of their handwriting is very distinctive.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Letter Count So Far
Two letters from Michael Swango.
One letter from Susan Smith.
One letter from Thomas Whitaker
One letter from Richard Allen Davis
Three letters from Raffaello Follieri (These letters will not be posted in type publicly.)
One letter from Susan Smith.
One letter from Thomas Whitaker
One letter from Richard Allen Davis
Three letters from Raffaello Follieri (These letters will not be posted in type publicly.)
Letters from the Inside, Follieri, #3
[Handwritten]
Dear Kelly,
It's great to hear from you again! Thank you for the card and the various articles you enclosed. I actually used to have a dog that looked just like Mini! your articles were very entertaining for me. So entertaining I shared them with some of the other guys who also got a kick out of them.
Thankfully it has warmed up here, so that has been nice. Not nice like tropical, but I guess I could imagine a few palm trees and a beach... I'm just glad it's been above zero! I sure do miss New York, Kelly, this place has some lousy accomodations :-) let me know if you agree. Check out www.boop.gov and see for yourself.! :-)
Anyway, keep that flow of articles coming my way! Hearing from you definitely helps make this time easier to deal with! I look forward to hearing from you soon and give my best to Mini too.
Take care,
Raffaello
Dear Kelly,
It's great to hear from you again! Thank you for the card and the various articles you enclosed. I actually used to have a dog that looked just like Mini! your articles were very entertaining for me. So entertaining I shared them with some of the other guys who also got a kick out of them.
Thankfully it has warmed up here, so that has been nice. Not nice like tropical, but I guess I could imagine a few palm trees and a beach... I'm just glad it's been above zero! I sure do miss New York, Kelly, this place has some lousy accomodations :-) let me know if you agree. Check out www.boop.gov and see for yourself.! :-)
Anyway, keep that flow of articles coming my way! Hearing from you definitely helps make this time easier to deal with! I look forward to hearing from you soon and give my best to Mini too.
Take care,
Raffaello
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Letters from the Inside, Susan Smith, #1
Letters from the Inside, Susan Smith, #1 2/12/2009
This letter is from Susan Smith. I will have it scanned so you can see the handwriting shortly.
Dear Kelly,
Hi! How are you? Thank you so much for taking the time to write. I LOVE the card!! It's really cool that picture is of you. You're very pretty & you seem really hip. :-) Like I'd imagine someone from NY would be.
Do you live in a house or apartment? I live in a nice 9'X10' "suite" with 2 other women. It's not too bad, since I get along w/both of them. I've been fortunate over the years to have decent roommates, though living alone would be great, too.
I work in education as a math tutor. I teach Pre-GED mat to the women here who are working towards earning their GED. It's a rewarding job and one I enjoy most days. Some days are stressful and I want to scream, but the good outweighs the bad. It's pretty awesome @ the graduation ceremony when you witness them receive their GED paper. I always cry. They have one ceremony a year in September.
In my spare time, I enjoy reading, going to the gym, listening to music, and watching t.v. I'm reading The Shack right now. I like all sorts of books. Mostly the "off-the-wall" books. I just read a great book by Wally Lamb called This Much I Know is True and I'm going to read his newest one next: The Hour I First Believed.
What do you do in your spare time? I visited New York in Sept. '94. I saw 2 shows on Broadway, Grease & The Beauty and the Beast. Both were awesome! I went to Central Park, shopped at Macy's, ate at the Hard Rock Cafe, and went to the Rockefeller Center. I had a great time and will never forget it.
I see my mum ever other week-end and I talk to her twice a week. She's my rock and best friend. I see & talk to other family & friends, too, but my mom us the most faithful. She is coming this weekend and bringing my grandmother with her. Tell me more about your family. Do you have any brothers or sisters? I have 2 older brothers: Michael, 47 and Scotty, 46. They are only 13 months apart & then I came alone 9 years later. A surprise! :-) I'm not real close to them, but we're always there for each other.
I'm not sure what else to write about, so I'm going to close here. First letters are hard to write. Thank you again for writing. You seem to be very genuine. Take carea nd I'll be waiting to hear from you again.
Love,
Susan
This letter is from Susan Smith. I will have it scanned so you can see the handwriting shortly.
Dear Kelly,
Hi! How are you? Thank you so much for taking the time to write. I LOVE the card!! It's really cool that picture is of you. You're very pretty & you seem really hip. :-) Like I'd imagine someone from NY would be.
Do you live in a house or apartment? I live in a nice 9'X10' "suite" with 2 other women. It's not too bad, since I get along w/both of them. I've been fortunate over the years to have decent roommates, though living alone would be great, too.
I work in education as a math tutor. I teach Pre-GED mat to the women here who are working towards earning their GED. It's a rewarding job and one I enjoy most days. Some days are stressful and I want to scream, but the good outweighs the bad. It's pretty awesome @ the graduation ceremony when you witness them receive their GED paper. I always cry. They have one ceremony a year in September.
In my spare time, I enjoy reading, going to the gym, listening to music, and watching t.v. I'm reading The Shack right now. I like all sorts of books. Mostly the "off-the-wall" books. I just read a great book by Wally Lamb called This Much I Know is True and I'm going to read his newest one next: The Hour I First Believed.
What do you do in your spare time? I visited New York in Sept. '94. I saw 2 shows on Broadway, Grease & The Beauty and the Beast. Both were awesome! I went to Central Park, shopped at Macy's, ate at the Hard Rock Cafe, and went to the Rockefeller Center. I had a great time and will never forget it.
I see my mum ever other week-end and I talk to her twice a week. She's my rock and best friend. I see & talk to other family & friends, too, but my mom us the most faithful. She is coming this weekend and bringing my grandmother with her. Tell me more about your family. Do you have any brothers or sisters? I have 2 older brothers: Michael, 47 and Scotty, 46. They are only 13 months apart & then I came alone 9 years later. A surprise! :-) I'm not real close to them, but we're always there for each other.
I'm not sure what else to write about, so I'm going to close here. First letters are hard to write. Thank you again for writing. You seem to be very genuine. Take carea nd I'll be waiting to hear from you again.
Love,
Susan
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Monday, February 2, 2009
Letters from the Inside, Raffaello Follieri, #2
Dear Kelly,
Thank you for writing me and sending me the article you wrote. Regarding pictures, articles, letters, etc...you can send me any kind of the above as long as there are no obscene photos. That is the main restriction. Otherwise, all the articles you discussed are acceptable for me to receive.
Additionally, typewritten letters are acceptable... (see, your letter made it to me just fine.)
I have been to some of the places you mentioned...they are beautiful. It is very cold here also...check out the weather online. It's below zero here a lot of the time and snows daily. I would like to be on a boat in Italy...baoting is one of my favorite pastimes.
Please feel free to send me the other stories you mentioned. I look forward to reading them!
Best Regards,
Raffaello
Thank you for writing me and sending me the article you wrote. Regarding pictures, articles, letters, etc...you can send me any kind of the above as long as there are no obscene photos. That is the main restriction. Otherwise, all the articles you discussed are acceptable for me to receive.
Additionally, typewritten letters are acceptable... (see, your letter made it to me just fine.)
I have been to some of the places you mentioned...they are beautiful. It is very cold here also...check out the weather online. It's below zero here a lot of the time and snows daily. I would like to be on a boat in Italy...baoting is one of my favorite pastimes.
Please feel free to send me the other stories you mentioned. I look forward to reading them!
Best Regards,
Raffaello
