Letters from the Inside, Michael Swango, #30

Dear KK---

Hi sunshine! Although I don't think that applied to the previous Sunday when you took your god-daughter to the Central Park Zoo. You sounded tired on an "alas...just a simple Sunday." Maybe a little down, too, but hard to tell. Then again, I could say something like: That Kelly K is sooo hot, that even the goats are hitting on her! Munch, munch!

Although your letter was relatively brief, you added a trio of fascinating and entertaining KK blogs/essays. Really good. And I will again say: your other book ideas withstanding, your essays & blogs are perfect for a truly entertaining book. For am even darker touch, you can throw in some of my experiences over the years!

[Ed.: I usually don't editorialize, but not only has he given permission to post his letters on my blog, but now he appears to be encouraging me to write about him.]

To you letter:

For someone who hates crowds, I can't imagine that the Central Park Zoo on a lovely spring day is exactly conducive to your mental well-being. Yikes! So you're a godmother--another interesting part of you revealed. How old is our god-daughter? Very sweet. Her parents must be very good friends.

[As with almost every subject under the sun-I am reminded of the "Seinfeld" episode about the Bris. One of their best.]

To be honest, I don't know how anyone is able to keep up with even a fraction of the numerous TV shows & series. Even with TiVo, etc., one still has to take the time to physically watch the taped episodes. No, I don't watch the Bachelorette, but these reality shows [Idol, Dancing, etc.] are amazingly popular.

So--please tell me how "IN TREATMENT" ended. You have definitely made me a fan, with its panoply of bizarre characters. Will there be a Season III? Sounds like the show is getting a lot of positive press.

Umm...wishing I was able to write some magic words or paint an arousing word picture to take your mind away! :) XO--to banish those "thoughts of doom"... a hot day you say.."finish this food and shower and lay in bed with the A/C.."

In one of your essays--you talked about "a nice boyfriend" to lay in bed with, win at scrabble with, and watch movies in the dead of winter while snow covers the city!

Both of the above mise-en-scenes remind me of extremely pleasant experiences of my own. You really are a romantic deep down---I like that. By the way, I'm pretty good at Scrabble...sorry, couldn't resist!

Cute but creepy card you sent just before that letter. I've probably seen way too many horror films--but the kids with the bags on their heads made me think of the adverts for that film "THE STRANGERS" last year, or one of the Diane Arbus odd photos.

[Ed.: This is odd because the card was very cute. The picture was of kids wearing funny masks and it was blank inside but from a children's foundation. Not creepy at all.]

In that cared you had a few questions: meal times are approximate & variable--roughly speaking 1615/1100/1700. I already mentioned the multiple classes. Unfortunately, no job--very few available in these unique circumstances.

I'm not at all surprised that we both sent articles on neuroscientific/psychological experiments. I'm learning more & more that you and I often think alike. The details of the "Stanford Prison Experiment" are simply incredible. I know you barely have time to breathe, let alone read--but that book by the psychologist with the "Z" name [Zambardo?--something like that] sounds well worth your time, and mine. I've not a chance to read it either.

Not sure if you're ready for any "equally probing questions" --much as I do want to know you inside & out; mind, body & "soul." Perhaps after I discuss some of those long conversations & questions I've had about men & women & relationships & sexuality/sensuality. But one think I do know--you & I are both complex people with complicated pasts (and presents!) with much to share...dear KK...

By the way, I noticed that W.A. Mozart card you enclosed with that picture card. More to say about music and memory in future letters. I want to know your gut & emotional reactions to certain songs & music. To know more about the deeper, darker? you...

Since you are already overwhelmed with too many shows & films & parties & not enough time--what better to send you than a preview of what sounds like a pretty good new Showtime series: "NURSE FALCO"--starring Edie Falco. Sent to me from the Times from my "medical" correspondent.

A great segue to stories of drug-addicted & drug-using nurses & doctors--I've seen a lot. Later, I promise, if you're interested.

Let me get this in the mail to you. Will talk about your blog/essays next time. [N.J. Rory & the preop-transsexual-just another day in the city...!] You take care of yourself---some TLC & warm baths. Thinking of you, KK

Yours,

Michael