Fan Mail 1990s

1997

In this letter, a fan mentions that Dunn's work is truly inspiring and questions whether it is odd to send the letter to Dunn if only she had read the rest of Dunn's mail!  

[Hofstra Special Collections:Stephen Dunn Collection Box 7 Folder 6]

1995

A fan letter discussing Dunn's poem "Loves"

[Hofstra Special Collections:Stephen Dunn Collection Box 7 Folder 3]

1993

This letter shows how personable and realistic Dunn's poems are, with the sender noting that she felt as if she were in Dunn's presence when reading his works.

[Hofstra Special Collections:Stephen Dunn Collection Box 7 Folder 1]

In tracing these 90's fan mail letters, one can see how Dunn's image and reputation have grown since the 1970's. As a more renowned poet, some of Dunn's fans appear to be in awe of him and his works. 

1998

This letter brings some humor and honesty to Dunn's fan mail. The sender admits to initially being envious of Dunn's profound skills but quickly finds that Dunn's poetry leaves him more awed than jealous.

[Hofstra Special Collections:Stephen Dunn Collection Box 7 Folder 8]

1998

This letter congratulates Dunn and also mentions that some of the sender's work, which done viewed prior to publication, was sold. 

[Hofstra Special Collections:Stephen Dunn Collection Box 7 Folder 8]

1998

[Hofstra Special Collections:Stephen Dunn Collection Box 7 Folder 8]

Funny, passionate, and honest—these letters depict a level of truthfulness through reflecting how some of Dunn's fans feel about his works. The letters also depict a running theme, which is that not only do other's read Dunn's work, but he also reads their works. It shows that there is a nice and supportive fan community, despite some occasional feelings of jealousy!