Dear A. Ginger, Erik can speak English, French, Spanish, Italian, German, Latin, Welsh, Russian and is learning Japanese. But he's never heard of "Klingon"... It sounds horribly ... nerdy. F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik Have you heard of the singer Linda Edar? If so, do you like her? I like her a lot! :) Love, Joanna

Dear Joanna, I have not yet heard of her. Could you perhaps provide me a sample of her work, to which I can then answer your question properly? F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik Okay, so I was wondering if you've ever heard of the Phantom reviewer? If so do you agree with him mostly or disagree mostly? If you haven't heard of him he's on Youtube and I think he does quite a good job reviewing all things Phantom. Love, Katie P.S. Isn't it nice some people know how to do post script correctly?

Dear Katie, I have heard of him, but I have not read/heard any of his reviews yet. He has, however, asked to review my animated adventures... however, we had to decline as I am making sure that these simpletons at Iron-Gibbet Studios get it RIGHT. F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik Do you happen to know how to fix a stammer? My cousin has a really bad stammer...and nothing seems to get rid of it. I figured being the genius that you are, you would know a way. Abby

Dear Abby, I am definitely no expert in the area, as I have not been able to clear up Christine's lisp -- Although I doubt you've noticed it, have you? Regardless, if she does not feel the need to seek professional training to fix it, then the only advice I could even venture to offer would be to deliberately slow down, concentrate on the curl of every word, and speak slowly. Sometimes it's just a matter of the brain running faster than the lips can keep up. But again, I am no expert, and I do not know if this is a medically-diagnosed type of stammer, or just nerves. F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik Hey mon ami, since back when you were alive back in the Opera House, you called yourself Opera Ghost and Phantom and other such nonsense even though you were still alive. So now that you're REALLY dead, and really a ghost, shouldn't you be The Opera Ghost's Ghost? And The Phantom of the Phantom of the Opera? So you should be signing letters 'F. de le F. de l'O.' A. Ginger

Dear A. Ginger, Perhaps, or perhaps it's quite the opposite and it is only now that I am really living, and should just be called "Erik"! F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik Hello again, Monsieur! It's a pleasure to be able to write one more. I've often wondered...does the number five hold some significance to you? I only thought of this because there is a similarity between your domains (Box Five, the Fifth Cellar, etc.) and wondered if it were a little more than a coincidence. Thank you for your time! Coral

Dear Coral, Remember, remember the fifth of November! No, I'm joking. I just liked the location of box five, and technically I'm in the 6th cellar - for the house on the lake is on a separate, secret level beneath the fifth cellar -- otherwise it would be painfully too obvious for others to find me. But that's only technically. So, it's mostly coincidence! F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik What are your thoughts on people claiming that you are a "pedophile"? Also, one of my friends claimed that you are a fop (quite a shocker, beccause people always call the Viscount this, which I find not to be true in his case). What do you think of that? Sincerely, Lexi P.S. I know some people have mentioned that you see Les Miserables, but perhaps, before doing so, you may want to read the novel by Victor Hugo. It's a very good read.

Dear Lexi, I think that your friend obviously has no idea what a fop is, and so therefore is irrelevant in the argument due to being ignorant and uninformed. What does she think about that? As for people claiming I'm a pedophile, Christine was 20 at the time of my courting her. And while I was... somewhat older... it was still in proper societal standards. Many men would take a younger wife indeed to help her or her family. It was common practice, and the people who claim I am a pedophile, are probably descendants of such anyway. So "Ha!" to them. F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik Have you seen any animes? Do you like them? Lawliet

Dear Lawliet, Yes, I've seen a few. There are some that are worth watching, and many that are not. I think I want to gouge my eyes out every time Chelsey suggests watching DragonBall Z -- But yet, I can't tear my eyes away from these muscular men with obvious bowel movement deficiencies. A couple I have watched recently that I enjoyed are "Hell Girl" where a girl is tasked with ferrying souls to hell in vengeance, and "Ouran High School Host Club" ...which I'm furious with because they should have kissed! Why didn't they kiss? F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik It is such an honor to write to you. I think you're awesome- and NOT because you were played by Gerard Butler, but just for being you! :) But anyways, onto the questions! I was wondering if you have developed any celebrity crushes? I know that other characters have received this question, but I don't think you have, and I would really love to know the answer :D ! My second question is on a little more serious of a matter. Please be honest, 100% honest, if you wouldn't mind too much. Is there anything (besides the obvious) that you envy about Raoul? And I don't mean the obvious- everyone knows that you envy him for winning Christine! Is there anything that you would love to have or experience that is out of reach for you, but perhaps not for the viscomte? Thank you for taking the time to answer my letter. You're awesome! Love, Annabeth E.

Dear Annabeth, I rather like Katherine Heigl... She's very pretty... But I also like Emma Stone, she makes me smile, but I'm sure she's far too young for me. I don't want to admit it, but perhaps to be able to live a normal life and work myself up for my accomplishments rather than my ...features. F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik Do people confuse you for a zombie because of the green skin and noselessness? Luz

Dear Luz, I wouldn't say they confuse me for one -- so much as scream bloody death gurgles as the zombies I seem to mingle with tear them a new one. F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik Bonjour, Monsieur Erik! I know you are rather an artistic sort of person, and I was wondering, how often do you draw, if at all? What sort of things do you like drawing? What things are you best at drawing? Oh and, also, just as a random question thrown in... What's your favourite chocolate? O_o Signed, CatFox :3

Dear CatFox, I doodle and sketch frequently, in fact. Especially plans for trapdoors and new inventions. In my leisure, however, I rather like to draw the female form. If that makes me a pervert, then so be it. But the female form is very entrancing, and drawing the curves of her sides and legs is almost therapeutic in how relaxing it can be. My favourite chocolate? I rather like the Lindor because of the way it melts down my throat... but Chelsey has been pestering me to try this... Godiva? F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik Hi Erik :) If you read The Blind Girl's question, then i hope you remember who i am. (I'll tell you what happened after i read the question to her.) Anyway here's my question, Did you ever think about trying to find people who are related to you? I wasn't sure if you were an only child or not, but who knows Your mother could have had more children after you ran a way. You could have Great Great Great Nieces and Nephews walking around. Much More Love Than My Sister, S.A.M Night (P.S, After I Read the letter to her she kinda blushed, laughed and called you a bad lier. Blind people are the best judge of characters, so I suggest you tell her the truth next time lol. She did say she would love to go on a long walk on a short piers with a genius such as your self. She's more of a mind over matter type of person.) (P.P.S, Are you glad that someone used the postscript right? It kinda makes up for my bad spelling.)

Dear S.A.M Night, I'm very pleased that there are a few of you out there who know how to properly use postscript! And yes, indeed I remember you. As for your question, however, I don't recall if I've ever even considered the fact. I mean, I know that I have cousins, but I couldn't really be bothered to care. Miserable children most of them were. Couldn't stand to be around them even if my mother would have ever let me come downstairs to see them! But as for nieces and nephews... or a brother or sister for that matter... the thought hadn't even crossed my mind! Wouldn't that be delightful if he/she were just like me? What a cruel thought. And as for your dear blind friend, if it brought a smile to her lips, then I am satisfied with myself. F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik I DARE YOU TO LISTEN TO NYAN CAT FOR TEN HOURS STRAIGHT!!! I ALSO DARE YOU TO KEEP YOUR SANITY AFTER ALL THAT!!! PS:: YO UGLY DUDE WHASSUP

Dear Whassup, ...I'd rather not. F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik Just a hypothetical question of sorts: If you ever in the near unforeseeable future decided to go to the zoo.... If a tiger went mad and managed to escape it's exhibit because some little brat was throwing popcorn at it or something, and everyone was in a panic, What would you do? Would you do something to stop the tiger? Or would you just watch it devour the small child and be completely calm with the situation? Tabitha

Dear Tabitha, That's easy. Laugh. Laugh looooong and hard. F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik Theres a current obsession with many people, which is an online comic called homestuck. Have you read this? And if so what are your thoughts on this?? Love Rina

Dear Rina, I have not heard of it. Is there a link you can provide me so that I may answer once I have seen it? F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik Fondest greetings to you Monsieur Fantome! I must say that it is an honor to write to you, a phantom with an extraordinary legend. I thank Monsieur Leroux for writing your story, because without your book, I never would have been able to know the greatest mastermind, magician, and maestro in all of Paris! You probably care not for these foolish praises, but alas, I wanted to get that off my chest... My question, Monsieur, is based on one of the most feared and misunderstood topics known to man... love. Quite recently, my heart was broken by someone whom I deeply cared about.. I still seem to ache because of it. However, I am trying to surpass it.. Tis difficult,no? Having your heart broken, your love bleeding out of you, and you just want to.. alas, you know the feeling. My question is simply this: What is love? Many people are hurt because of it. It disturbs me deeply; what is real.. or true.. love? How may you describe it? I hope to hear from you, my opera friend. I hope that you will consider my letter, and reply please. Your Obedient Servant, Maylin (M.A.M)

Dear Maylin, That's a difficult question indeed. I think that the easiest way to sum it up is the unequivocal feeling of wanting to be with someone, and having them want to be with you. And what makes it real is when that person thinks the same way as you. F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik Dear Erik I can really relate to you. You see, I was born with Mobious Syndryme. It's a rare birth defect that affects the face and limbs. I can't move my eyes-left-to-right, and I only have two fineries. My feet are stubs. I was wondering, is your condition anything doctors have seen before? Or are you unique? If you could meet other who look like you, would you? Anyway, I need some advice; I really want a boyfriend. I know I'm 16, and most boys my age are more concered with look than anything else. One more thing, I don't think you're ugly. First of all our society is so deluded, that our perception of beauty is highly distorted. I think (and get offended) that you're beautiful. Different, yes. Shocking, certaintly. But not ugly. I am open minded, and I think I can see the beauty in the "ugly" beauty is relative. Remember: life is 10 % what happens, 90 % how you look at it. That's from my personal experience. don't give up. You're a fighter Kelsey

Dear Kelsey, My dear, sweet Kelsey. I am sorry to hear of your condition, but am glad that we share a kindred circumstance, as it were. Unfortunately, I am unique in my condition. There has been research into syndromes which have been close, but nothing is ever spot-on. For instance, there will be something that explains my skin - but not my skeletal features or vice-versa. I think it would be a very eye-opening experience to meet someone just like me. I do not know if it would heal the wounds, but it may be quite uplifting to realize that I wasn't alone. Now, as for your boyfriend situation... Yes, young men are rather thick-headed to be perfectly blunt, but you must realize that many of them grow out of it. There are many boys/men out there who do not care about looks in the slightest, but as like any diamond in the rough, they are difficult to find. You must be patient, my dear. When you're a teenager, it can seem like nothing is as important as the moments that are happening right now. But, take it from someone who is much, much older... Life continues on, and there is so much time to get exactly what you want. You do not want to rush into something that could hurt you in the end. So there's nothing wrong with being ...picky... about your boyfriends! Have faith, patience, and keep being sweet, and I'm sure you'll find someone in no time who will love you for who you are. F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik Bonjor, Erik! It's Isabel again! I really hope I'm not annoying you with my questions, if I am, feel free to tell me to stop. I was just wondering your views on the following things: 1. The television show Glee 2. Owl City 3. The Apple Corporation, iTunes, and Ipods 4. Icredibly plotless, grammatically incorrect, badly written fanfiction I'd really love to hear your answers! All the best, Isabel

Dear Isabel, 1. I hate it. It's poorly done, and teaches children the wrong things. 2. Eh... I haven't really an opinion. They're not good, and they're not awful. Their music all sounds the same, though. 3. Geniuses. I couldn't have thought of a better way to control the population through mindless spending! 4. I try to pretend it doesn't exist. Makes life much easier. F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik I know that you hate the play and the movie adaptation of your story, but Le Fantome De Le Opera was the first play that I had ever seen. I have always felt a conection to you, even though I dont know you. Emma P.S. I know that when people do it wrong, it drives you nuts, so I'm doing it right to say: you are my idol, you inspired me to sing in my schools talet show, and play. P.P.S. You are awsome. P.P.P.S. I suppose I have to ask a question, so here it is: Why did you name Mephistopheles Mephistopheles?

Dear Emma, Err -- thank you? Now on to your question... I gave Mephistopheles his name because he was a "little devil". The devil is named Mephistopheles in Gounod's opera, Faust, which is one of my favourites. So I thought it suited. F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik Do you ever get a little itchy under that mask? - Adrienne I'm going to find your skeleton and keep it, is that okay? Well possibly properly bury it. I've been thinking about this for a while. ;D What are your thoughts? - Emilia

Dear Adrienne & Emilia, My older masks used to get very itchy. But it depended on the material. I prefered my black mask because it was a harder material, and didn't irritate my skin as much. My new mask, being latex, doesn't really get itchy as much as it makes my face sweat a bit. Thankfully it's not too annoying though. ...I'd prefer you not keep my skeleton... Burying it would be much more appropriate if you truly care for me in the slightest. Or have respect for the dead, for that matter. Though how you would distinguish it from amongst the countless others, is beyond me. F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik you may have been asked this question many times, but how do you feel about a book about you has been one of the classics and the favorite story of so many people and many generations to come? Prefer to Be Anonymous

Dear Prefer, Aghast? F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik Hello there! I was just ever so curious about one thing: is there a biological or medical name for your black corneas? Is it connected to your gold irises? Sincerely, Xenos

Dear Xenos, Not that I know of, though I'm sure given my past experiences it would be something along the lines of "Freakofnaturosis". Perhaps I'm half shark! They've got nearly all black eyes, haven't they? F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik To answer your question from before, no, if you bought me a drink I would not be a Ginger Ale.... Although the thought of going out drinking with you does sounds rather nice... But that is not the point. Nor is the fact that you didn't actually answer my question.... I, as the sweet, caring, annoying fan of yours I am, must know if your little kiss with Chelsey, the one after you made the whole speech about her normal clothes looking nice and blah, blah, blah, was your first real kiss. While it would be very sad that your first kiss was after you're dead, you have commented on your appearance several times, said that no one loved you and yada, yada, yada. Your loving fan, A. Ginger P.S. Don't try lying about your feels for Chelsey. We can all see it. Or do I have to bring up that horrible incident with Carlotta and the 'almost kiss' where you completely spilled your guts, so to say?

Dear A. Ginger, Although my flirting may be somewhat rusty, I am led to believe that this may be a set up for an excursion... But, I remain ever curious, and must ask: What drink would I be purchasing for you, instead? Speaking of drinks, the wine I was enjoying is slowly ebbing from my system, but my memory remains somewhat fuzzy -- so if the question was indeed "Was Chelsey my first kiss?" Then, it depends. Technically, I regard Christine as my first kiss. Were that she planted any on me after I passed away, I am unaware (albeit hopeful). But if you are speaking in terms of first... lip to lip kiss... then, yes. I suppose she was. F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik Hi hope you are in good health. My question is this, were you insipired in any way shape or form by Hades. Wondering because you seem to have a few similarities. Heather

Dear Heather, Which Hades are we speaking of here? Or perhaps you mean... just... Satan? Frankly... I don't believe in Satan anymore. People have likened him to me, but I don't really believe in God anymore either...so therefore I shant need to believe in his counterpart. F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik I'm not really sure how to put that in link form....but I dare you to play this piece, triple dog DARE YOU Samantha

Dear Samantha, ...That is insane, and also, the best thing I have ever seen. I shall begin practicing it at once! Although perhaps, I should wait until the wine is out of my system... because it may not be for much longer whilst trying to navigate this abomination! F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik First I would like to say that i am a big phan, of both the book by Gaston Leroux and the musical protrayals of you (my boyfriend played you in the musical he was in), and it is an honor to write to you. My question to you is what do you believe is one of your favorite places to awe at the beauty of nature? I am also curious to what you think is the most beautiful instrument you have played or heard? Sincerely with great respect from a Phan, Katrina

Dear Katrina, I adore going to the Bois de Boulogne... and thankfully it has somewhat - albeit only somewhat - improved since my time. It is unfortunate how it has become a very lewd park for frivolities and debauchery. But it is still a very beautiful place. I love my violin and still believe it to be my favourite sounding instrument. It is slight, elegant and powerful. But of course, I also love the pipe organ, merely because of it's brutish strength on deeper notes and full, fat chords. But I do like this instrument that I discovered from the 1970's... it's a water pipe... thing. I'm not sure exactly what it's called off the top of my head -- I shall look it up once more. But, it makes this bizarre ethereal sound, and was used in a lot of horror movies at the time. F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik I'm going to sick the total fan love knowing that you know it's there, thus I have one question I hope you do not find it too silly, it is: You have millions of candles in your home...are they scented by any chance? Blessing to you, Liliane De Lamrliere.

Dear Liliane, Why, yes! Some of them are indeed scented. I prefer to have white candles predominantly, so at the moment I only have vanilla scents. But I know there are some new 'flavours' as it were, in white. So I intend to pick those up on my next outing. I'm not sure how "clean linens" will mix with the rest... F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik If you could dress Christina up in ANY costume, what would it be? Butterfly316

Dear Papillon316, I'm sure you mean 'Christine', and not 'Christina'... But yes, let me think... Perhaps I would like to see her in a beautiful greek goddess costume. I think it would suit her delightfully. F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik Comment êtes-vous? J'espère que tout va bien dans le monde du Fantôme de l'opéra. Pardon my French, I'm a bit rusty. I know you all tired of "Phan-girls." Don't count me as one. I remember reading the book, I was still pretty young, about 11 I'd say. I don't know how many times people have told you that you have inspired them in some way or another. I'll spare you that comment. I'm a writer, you can see my gallery on deviantART (http://mariellewindwolf.deviantart.com) or my blog (http://wolfiesramblings.blogspot.com). I specialize in horror, macabre and fantasy. My pet project is La Mort Rouge Promenades. The reason I'm writing is because... I'm in love with a man. He is dark and I feel he is lost in that darkness. I love him dearly. We both love the original novel and the musical. His nickname is Phantom, for reasons I'm not sure of. He has his secrets. We recently broke up because of stress on my end and the fact he was going back to his dark, persona where the shadows are his only companion. I'm playing piano getting voice lessons to try and win him over. Am I just a hopeless romantic? Any advice? You Humble Servant, M G Kalar The Dark Mistress PS: Would you be interested in my recipe for s'more brownies? If so I'll send the recipe for you in the next "Ask Requiem Mask." I don't want to spam the in boxes with things you wouldn't be interested in. Also! I finally got myself a new copy of the original novel. Now I can spend hours reading and re-reading the book.

Dear MG, I'm sorry, my dear... I seemed to have tuned everything else out save for "S'more Brownies". Indeed, please do send the recipe! Perhaps once I am thoroughly satiated with gross amounts of chocolate and marshmallows, I shall be able to read and answer your letter more ...more ... more better. ...S'mores... c'est délicieux... F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik Okay I seriously hope this hasn't been asked yet! If it is, my deepest apologies! I know what your opinion is on the sequel, but I was curious if you would give any chance to any other story after the main "Phantom of the Opera"? And I don't mean fanfiction or anything fan-written. I mean a serious author who would actually have some talent to maybe, MAYBE make a GOOD follow-up story after the Phantom (one that makes sense of course). I heard and read up on the sequel that everyone is so up-in-arms about, and have to say it wasn't what I was expecting xP Sincerely, Morgan P.S. I hope you guys don't go back to ghosts, for my own selfish reasons and whatnot lol!

Dear Morgan, Any sequel would be asinine by any author -- given that I DIED... F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik Greetings, my question to you is a bit unusual. I was woundering, if you could go back in time to any point in your life what time would you go to, and what would you change? Note: It can only be your life, so you can't go back and prevent Raoul from being born. :) Yours, Annala

Dear Annala, Now, I know I've answered this before as well. Have you been keeping up on your letters? Remember, if you ask a repeat question, Erik will just delete it! I said that I would have tried to do something differently that would have spared a certain young girl I knew when I studied in Italia. F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik I wish I could skip this, considering you seem to be annoyed by the enthusiasm of certain fan girls, but I feel privileged just to be writing you, and I admire you very much. You stayed strong when nothing had gone right in your life, and continued doing what you loved, which never fails to be masterful, by the way. I also wanted to thank you, for I am an aspiring soprano, and was beginning to become very discouraged when my voice instructors kept quitting on me. (Not because of me, but I’m sure you could see why this would be slightly hard) After I read the original Phantom of the Opera, I decided that if I wanted to accomplish my goal, I’d need to keep trying, though I was irritated that none of the teachers I would find would ever be as great as you (;D ). I do hope my little rant of admiration does not make you weary, for I know you’ve been receiving a lot of love from the other phangirls. Now, my questions. I believe I have two. 1. What are some vocal exercises and/or tricks (like what to do before a performance and all that) I could try in order to strengthen my voice? 2. Which of your masks do you prefer the most out of all the ones you have been portrayed with? (You seemed to like the one Chelsey found for you, but perhaps besides that one?) I look forward to hearing from you, for you are one of the world’s greatest geniuses. En continuant à chanter, T.E P.S : I can’t help it, Just want you to know I definitely would have chosen you over Raoul. ;)

Dear T.E, Erik supposes he can listen to a little extra fan-miration... Vocal tricks: always warm up, of course. This is very important, but if you've been training for a while, you should already be aware of this. Also, drink lots of water, and avoid anything like Coca-Cola or Milk before a performance, as it coagulates in your throat and creates phlegm. For strength, practice your breathing. Pressure and control from your tummy. I'm sure you're aware of this as well, but remembering to do exercises for this is important -- think lamaze. That sort of thing. Besides my current mask? I have one that I made completely out of shards of mirror which I rather like. I figured if people were made to look at me, then I would make them look at themselves! F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik Just a question...How Raoul, Christine and the Daroga end in your home after they die?? O.o Dan Phantom P.S: Mephy have a friend?? i dont know...like a...squirrel???

Dear DP, How did they END? Or how did they end UP in my home? ...They did not die in my home if that's what you're wondering... And as for how they ended up in my house on the lake after they died, well, quite simple... I dragged them. And no. Mephistopheles may not have a friend. That blasted pigeon is bad enough that keeps following us when we're walking around the city. A squirrel is just as likely to give poor Mephi fleas! F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik Would you give up your genius and some of your musical talent if it meant you got to look like everyone else? Alysse

Dear Alysse, Why, that's a splendid question... and difficult too. How much of my genius? I suspect I would still be of average intelligence at least... Then... Yes. Yes, I would. I would much rather blend into a crowd than be a genius. ...Besides, I could still be a ventriloquist, exquisite killer, sculpter, mason... I would never be out of a job! F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik I was planning on asking everyone this question, but the option is no longer available. Since you usually give logical explanations and good advice, I turn to you with this life-altering question. I need to stand up to my boss. It took me months to land a job, and now that I have it, I love it-- my coworkers are friendly, the pay is alright when I'm doing food delivery (I work at a sandwich shop), and I have a lot of fun... However, when I have to work with my manager, it's like I'm in Hell. I have lost count of how many times I have gotten home after working with her and just cried myself to sleep. She is rude and hostile towards me, nearing the edges of verbally abusive. I don't want to leave this job, but I think that if she accuses me of stealing from the shop till again I may just lose control and scream at her or something. Please help! Sorry for the long letter. I don't mean to burden you with my insignificant problems, but I am at my wit's end and no one else is really giving me advice for what to do in the short-term. :( All my love, Laura

Dear Laura, Well, my usual suggestion of "Light them on fire" would not really apply to somewhere you would like to stay employed at. I remember your letter, my dear! Erik, I did provide a splendid answer, if you'd take a look at it, I'm sure it would suffice, don't you agree? No, I wouldn't agree! Get out of my letter! :( *leaves* ...Although... He does have a point. I don't want to admit it, but what he suggested is probably your best bet -- and much more legal than my original suggestion. F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik This might seem odd but um........ I need serious advice and stuff. So life is stressful, bills pilling up, college work that needs to be done, and trying to save up money to move out of this abusive hellhole that I currently live in, on top of many other things. Due to all this pilling up I gained a rather nasty nervous habit!! To put it bluntly, I pick my feet completely raw to the point that I can no longer walk around. It has become rather bad, and I really want to get back outside and run around but I just can’t stop, kinda like an addiction gone horribly wrong. Usually my friends can track me down because there is usually a bloody trail to follow around the house whenever we hang out (personally that’s a waste of blood usually I paint with it if my feet get raw enough BUT that’s just me). Now that I mentioned the paintings, you can see my conflict. As much as I would like to stop and get back to doing outdoorsy things, I also want to continue these paintings, they hold a deeper meaning to me, but here I am rambling on about useless things so I’ll ask my question. Do you know of any kind of mindset or thing I can do to quit this habit of mine, I’ve already tried wearing socks and bandaids but to no avail. You seem to have a knack of figuring things out so if you get any ideas on how to stop this thing I would be extremely grateful. Michelle

Dear Michelle, It's not so much a habit as it is a disorder. Regardless of what you tell yourself, you're doing self harm to quell feelings inside that you can't deal with. You should be talking to someone, a "professional" I'm being shouted at from the other room, and not just Erik. What I would suggest, however, is replacing the habit. One would normally suggest a thick rubber band around the wrist, and everytime you feel the need to 'pick', snap the band hard. It will give you the satisfying painful distraction, but will also train your mind to avoid doing just that. Like a slap to the face, more or less. Also, you should invest a little of that money saved for 'hellhole' evacuation to purchase a medicated cream for your feet. I was watching a program called "1,000 Ways to Die" yesterday, and it specified a rather nasty skin eating disease that can enter from an open wound that basically rots your innards out and kills you in a week. Best to stop your foot destruction, because you're more than likely going to cause yourself more damage than just not being able to walk. F. de l'O.

~~~

Dear Erik Don't get me wrong hun, your eyes are very very cool, but why are they such a strange color? Were you just born that way? Court

Dear Court, Hadn't I talked about this already? Merde, I can't even remember, there's been so many blasted letters! There are many people who have natural yellow eyes, it's just a pigment anomaly. As for why they glow? Yes! I did answer this already! I remember! Look through the older letters, dear Court. You shall get my honest answer. F. de l'O.

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Dear Erik Yo, sorry to bug ya again but this question just hit me as I turned on my boombox. What are your opinions on country radio/music? I for one love it and grew up with country but none of my friends like it (they put up with it for me though). Being born and raised down south in a small town may be a factor in my love of the genre but I'm just curious on your thoughts on the music as well. Also do you happen to know any fiddle music? If you haven't played fiddle before or in a while I suggest playing it; loads of fun there, at least, I personally find playing fiddle is awesomely fun. Erica

Dear Erica, Of course I know how to play fiddle! That's part of the joy of knowing how to play the violin! Country music is touch and go for me. There are several songs that I rather enjoy. But it bothers me to no end to hear people say "I don't follow the crowd! I listen to real music! Country music!" I... cannot express the idiocy of the people who proclaim this... But, I digress. The point is, I like music from every genre. When it comes to country, I'll say that I dislike Lady Antebellum, but I rather like a number of songs from Patsy Cline and Garth Brooks. In particular, I like "If Tomorrow Never Comes". F. de l'O.

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Dear Erik If you played a Pokemon game, what starter would you pick? Water, Fire or Grass. I only ask this because only the coolest of people play Pokemon and you are a cool person. Erica

Dear Erica, I would choose water. The siren takes the beast. F. de l'O.

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Dear Erik This is something I have wondered for a long time. Would you ever go to an amusement park and ride a roller coaster (not the pussy ones but the hardcore flippy ones)? Being an adrenaline junkie I have always wondered this. Reo

Dear Reo, Bring it on. F. de l'O.

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Dear Erik Erik it's quite nice to be writing to you. You are perhaps my favorite "antagonist" in the sense that you stray from the steryotypical villian. For me you broke the mold of the cliche villian and that was quite refreshing. Maybe it's because i don't truely see you as "evil." Clever and crafty? Yes. Talented? Most definately. Evil? Not so much. Just a man in love that went about things in a way that was rather frowned upon by the rest of society. (And just for the record i read the book 1st and the 2004 movie was a bit of a dissapointment to say the least at least in casting and story line). On to the questions. I apologize in advance if i appear to be long winded, or ask anything that has been asked already. I've read through the letters but cannot recall every question ever asked. 1. This first on is one i think no one else could answer. After all this is your area of expertise! My first question is simply about Opera. I am currently rereading Leroux's book and of course there's referances to music i haven't encountered (despite my 5 or so years of choir). I am quite curious as to the works and what they sound like and other aspects of Opera (what's out there ect.) and i was just wondering: Where do I start? There's just so much to to opera i wondered where's the best place for one as unfamiliar with it as I to start? Are there back ground readings i could use to understand it better? Whose works should i look at first? There's just so much of it i don't know where to begin. It seems a bit overwhelming. 2. I'd like to ask your opinion of a few specific songs. Most of these i have sung in choir and i found them quite enjoyable. The first is "Quel Tristarel Damore" (spelling may be off) It's in italian and quite beautiful espically sung by a SATB choir. The second is an old favorite of mine "Danny Boy." It's quite well known i think and the version by a group called Celtic Woman is quite good too i believe. The last is Wind Trilogy, but only if you can find a version that HASN'T been completely botched. The version i find every time has reduced the tempo to a crawl that makes funeral marches look lively and is sung by girls with vowels that would make any choir teacher cry in shame. 3 Have you ever considered taking up any sports? Perhaps a martial art? I myself am a thrid degree blackbelt (no really i am) in Tae Kwon Do (means the way of fist and foot). I find it to be quite theraputic. Or would you participate in something else? 4 You have mentioned you are a fine dancer though you prefer not to. Are there any styles of dance you don't know that you would like to learn. I like "Swing" dance (a style that was quite popular in the mid 1950's I think especially in america) it's quite energetic and fun. Thank you for taking the time for my questions. I apologize for asking so many and for writing so much. Many thanks Sharon

Dear Sharon, Good GOD Girl... would that our fingers tire so easily from typing, I would think that your writing hand would have fallen off by now! I'm going to number this so that I can keep track: 1. Start with Puccini. He's fun. Look up works on wikipedia. Look up performances on Youtube. Visit your library and look up Opera. Fork over the money to go to one in your city - nearly every city has an opera company. There's many ways to start. It's up to you. 2. Quel Tristarel D'Amore reminds me of cherubs. I do not know why, but it just does. Danny Boy, I've never been fond of. It's been sung in parody too many times for me to enjoy it anymore. and I rather like the Wind Trilogy. Especially the little piano trills. Wistful if I had to pick a single word. 3. Tae Kwon Do -- that's the one that Chelsey took for a while. She called it "Hit them in the kidneys until they pee blood"... but I can't imagine that's the technical way of looking at it. Perhaps she just went to a misinformed school. But no, I haven't really the desire to take up a sport. If I had to, then perhaps I would study with the Shaolin Monks. But really, Martial Arts is the only sport I would even consider. The rest are just... not my cup of tea. 4. I think I'd like to give "Krumping" a go. F. de l'O.

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Dear Erik hello erik i greatly admire you and your work and feel a certain connection to you and your plight i too was the victim of the culity of people but anyway joe and i are soon to be married and i was wondering do you have any advice for two people just starting out also my fiance wanted to ask how much wood would a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood sorry not my question his but anyway hope the modern day world is treating you well jamie and joe

Dear Jamie and Joe, A woodchuck could chuck no amount of wood since a woodchuck can't chuck wood. I'm not sure I can offer the best advice for a couple just starting out... as my first act in marriage was to "release the boy and the bumbling daroga if I have to." Though, if I had to venture a guess, I would say to take time for each other. Because it will get less and less frequent especially when you have children. So as long as you remember to make time, you'll always have it. F. de l'O.

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Dear Erik Hello there! Just to start out with, apparently I have some personality traits that match yours because I was you on the Which RM Character are You personality test. My question to you is, how can you get someone to accept you for who you are and stop trying to change you? I'm a tomboy. There are very few things, if any, about me that are girly. Lately certain people have been trying to make me act more...feminine... and I just want them to realize that I am fine just the way I am. Dragoon

Dear Dragoon, Light them on fire. No stomach for it? Alright... well, then, I would say just continue doing things as you see fit. Politely object when they suggest or offer you something not to your tastes, and eventually they will get the idea. After all, it's your life. You should live it the way you want to. Some people will be a tomboy for only a phase of their life. Others will remain that way their entire lives and become amazingly strong women that can outdo men -- and that is what makes them attractive and feminine in their own way. So, just ignore it, essentially. F. de l'O.

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Dear Erik Okay, I'm not going to ask you them stalker-like questions anymore. Relief? So, I've been thinking about ALW's idiotic production and every time my mind jumps back to it, I think, "How would that mask cover his face?" You know what I'm talking about, right? Half a mask does not cover your face, Erik. Where did ALW get the idea that he can just chop the disfigurement and destroy the beautiful love story which was your disasterous life? I've looked that question up quite a few times and found that Webber wanted to make you able to show facial expressions. When I read that, I was like, "Hello??? The whole creepy part about the mask is that you don't see his face!! What do you people not understand!!!" So, Erik, what I wanted to ask you is... What was Uncle Francois' wife's name? What was she like? Did you ever meet her? Also, I want to know what you look for in piano music when you search through compositions? Do you have specific likes and dislikes? Sadly, I have grown bored with the stack of piano music I have (and guess what -- one of the books is "The Phantom of the Opera", so I play that, but only because it's somewhat (if not distantly) related to you). :) Oh that's awesome I made a smiley face. (::| |::) That was supposed to be a bandaid to put on your pain... ~Felicity PS: Type 30453080 into a calculator (do NOT press enter) and turn it upside down. Read it and laugh. PPS: Has Christine told you that she, erm, feels a tad bit... ugly? She told me that in one of her letters, so, um, erm... BYE. I GOTTA GO BEFORE THIS GETS AWKWARD. BYE.

Dear Felicity, Ramblings aside, have you even seen that Dario Argento version? That version of me is ridiculously handsome. Baffling. I was still quite young when François took that awful woman's hand in marriage. Her name was Anna. I couldn't stand her. She was always trying to convince me of all the good in the world, and how sweets could make things better. Or being sweet for that matter. She was a pot of lies, and it annoyed me to no end. She was a pudgy woman. Clever. Actually, I rather miss her of anyone considered my family. I hear she died from Cancer rather young, after their children were born. ...Also, Oboe shoe? As for Piano music... I don't know, It's not really that I look for anything in particular. I'll give anything a read/play through, sometimes things that I despise one moment will describe how I'm feeling the next. So it's rather unpredictable with me. I can't say I hang onto sheet music for long though. I grow weary with it, I throw it away. It's not like I have all the storage space in the world, but I do have a talent for remembering pieces and can easily play them from memory. So the paper is rather worthless. F. de l'O.

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Dear Erik Has anyone ever told you how peaceful you look while you sleep? Felicity

Dear Felicity, I will be sure to change all the locks and set more traps in the house on the lake immediately. F. de l'O.

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Dear Erik, I was hopeing to ask this question to everyine but, I didn't see that option. Anyways I just started college and I'm taking a course called what does literature do? Our teacher asked what literature is and we all came up with different theories. What do you think literature is? And what makes it qulify as literature? your friend Brittany Cole

Dear Brittany, Yes, as we've stated, we are no longer offering the "Ask Everyone" ability. Literature I always merely assumed was anything lyrical that the brain put to paper. I shouldn't think it should be anything more complicated than that. For, if you think about it, regardless of whether a story, song, poem, memoir, or manifest is any good - or even truthful - that does not suggest that it would not be classified as anything but. Why? Does your professor have some sort of sneaky new way to view it? I would like to know. F. de l'O.

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