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[Mark A Becker]

Hey Duke-

Thanks for the comments.

This short one applies to the ice storm that we experienced in Virginia.

"... unpleasant images of isolation-engendered suicidal thoughts - stay with us, Mark! Spring is just around, well, two or three corners."

Though I must admit to some self-destructive behaviors, I have never considered suicide.  I definitely see your interpretation, but I have every intention of keeping my blood in my veins.  I am already tweeking a couple pieces for Spring, because it will surely come, and I plan on being part of it.

The razor wire image was more literal than metaphorical- the freezing rain from my porch actually looked like razor wire to me. Though we didn't lose power (underground utlilities) there are plenty of folks who were literally (temporarily) iced in, cut off, and powerless due to the storm.

Hope all is well in the great state of Texas,
Mark