FIVE REACTIONS TO BEING
Dover has its chalk cliffs but
so what. Flip-flops belong on
some feet, but who decides on
names. In Copenhagen no one
wears a gold star or everyone does.
The duck has a place in history.
You can get crushed in the front
rows of heavy metal. Linger, please,
don’t go yet. Look at my hands
carving air: they love you.
A thunder head blows up in minutes.
Derelict heart. Plant fingers here
now. Lipsync heaven.
from The Gettysburg Review & Able, Baker, Charlie
john mann poems 
John, enjoying your poetry. It would be nice to hear from you. I’m on Facebook or send me an email.
Dr, Mann,
Tom Glenn here. I was in your Poetry class back in ’74 or ’75. I want to write a letter to you ( yes a decade has passed) but cannot locate your address. Please let me know how I can reach you.
Thanks,
Tom Glenn
Hi, Tom. Good to hear from you. My address:
629 N. Linn St. Iowa City, IA 52245
All best, John Mann
Sent from my iPad
>
Hello Mr. Mann,
This is Raheal Hanna. I was one of your poetry students at WIU. How are you? I hope all is fine. I am writing because I am in a bit of a bind. Would you feel comfortable giving me a recommendation for my application to grad school. I’m applying for an MFA in poetry. One of my recommenders is flaking out on me unfortunately and you are my only hope.
My phone number is 773-664-9202. Let’s converse.
Take care.