Backstabbing, forgotten promises, unexpected moments of redemption...love and friendship is complicated stuff. But my experience with Jon is that he doesn't generally "go off" on those he loves. Sure, he'll set you straight, or get into it with you if you don't see eye to eye. But it's only when you trick him into thinking you're a dependable ally, only to clobber him on the head with selfishness or incompetence that he'll really let you have it. But what I like about Jon is that he tries to hold himself to the same standard. So if he's bitter about someone else's fuck ups, you can bet he's also dissected himself with the same ruthlessness. The writing in this section, more than any other, seems to capture the range of Jon's attitudes about life and the people who are lucky (or unlucky) enough to cross his path.

Alfredo’s Gallery and the Changing Face of Small Town America
Jon and Andrea Burns get the inside story of why Alfredo DiLascia moved his gallery from downtown Northampton, Massachusetts. It’s a cautionary tale for anyone who prefers to see local art instead of corporate doughnut shops and cell phone stores in their towns.

Hoop Master Sass, a.k.a. Megan E. Labonte
Jon and Andrea Burns talk shop with visual artist and hula hooper Megan E. Labonte.

Hair is History – Why I Cut Mine
Jon takes a serious look at the relationship between hair, identity, and rock and roll.

When I Left Tulsa
Jon performed a hard-hitting spoken word poem at his 20 year high school reunion. His goal: undermine “lifestyle marketing” and say something real.

In Search of a Better Story: An Awkward Tribute to Sander Thoenes
Jon's story of how the death of a college friend shook his life up.

Camus and Sartre: A Friendship Lost Over the Clash Of Ideas
Jon finds some meaning in life's absurdities.

Men's Resource Center
This guy must've had on his calendar: "Screw with Jon Reed this month."

Remembering My Grandmother
Hardly a rant, but not your typical memorial service fare either. Jon pays tribute to a proud woman and a problematic relationship.

A Poem for Rachel
When Jon goes off on you, it's not necessarily a bad thing.