scorched walls
airless halls
belching flame
delivers pain
what was a room
is now a tomb
As letters to servicemen from wives or girlfriends back home would typically contain affectionate language (such as "Dear Johnny", "My dearest John", or simply "Darling"), a serviceman receiving a note beginning with a curt "Dear John" would instantly be aware of the letter's purpose. ... The men called them "Dear Johns".