ALL THE LONELY MEN
I read Billy Baker’s article and decided it was time to get the boys back together (“Where Have All the Guys Gone?” March 12). It started with a simple text message and ended with several hours of guy talk, breweries, nachos, wings, and a feeling that we all need to look out for one another. Even with the endless routine of work and family, it’s possible to remember friends and all they mean.
Ian (somewhat slightly drunk) Clayton / Medfield
Baker’s article really grabbed me. I’m 73, and although I’ve managed to keep in close contact with a handful of male friends, I can relate to his statement that it takes effort. I’m forwarding this article to my two sons, who are about his age and in his position in life. Thanks for opening my eyes to an issue I didn’t realize was so prevalent.
Neil Weiner / Wayland
I’m just days shy of 52. I’ve been with my husband nearly 23 years, and, male or female, I find myself missing my friends. Most of my friends are female, but nonetheless we seem to have drifted apart over the past few years. And the male friends? It’s even worse. This article has shown me what I’m feeling isn’t unique, and it validates my recent thoughts about DOING something about it. His editor was right. He was a great choice for this piece.
Paul Dixon / Brighton
Editor’s Note: Baker received hundreds of letters in response to his story. For more on them, read “My two weeks as America’s No. 1 middle-aged loser” at bostonglobe.com/magazine.
COVER GIRLS
The most beautiful part of this issue is the front cover. I am sure it will also have delighted Emily Bernard, writer of the “One of a Kind” article (March 12). I have been looking at the photo of the two little girls so much I can tell you what they are wearing with my eyes closed. I try not to think of the disappointments awaiting them later in life.
Uta Musgray / Lowell
MURDEROUS INTENT?
I commend Mark Arsenault on his article about his experience with Craig Price (“Rhode Island’s Most Hated Man & Me,” March 12). I have been involved with an inmate in the New York State prison system for almost 30 years. Like Craig, he is probably one of the most hated men in the state. However, through the years he has become a friend and brother to me.
Dan Jones
Clarence Center, New York
It’s difficult for me to look beyond what Price did and see someone who has aspirations to someday get married and have children. I do believe Price will eventually get out. It will be unbelievably difficult for him to adjust to freedom, especially in today’s world. He was able to fool many people at a young age, and I think he has mastered the art of making himself likable, even to a seasoned journalist.
Claire LaRue
St. Augustine, Florida
As someone who works with individuals in reentry from Boston’s prison system, I can identify with the social vertigo that comes from reconciling someone’s past actions to the person we see in the moment. I appreciate Arsenault’s message. Alienation and stigmatization, even after unthinkable crimes, only make the world more unsafe.
Zach Smola / Somerville
That piece crackled. Great pacing and pitch-perfect tone.
Joseph R. LaPlante
Warwick, Rhode Island
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