Occupational metaphors packed Republican stump speeches yesterday, and the symbolic barrage climaxed when John McCain told a crowd: "Well, you're all Joe the Plumber!"

In an interview earlier this week, poet and performer Douglas Kearney urged young writers to question such seemingly harmless political language. The Whiting Award winner also talked about his upcoming projects, including poems about crucial moments in contemporary history.

No matter what happens, Tuesday's presidential election will re-configure the emotional and political landscape of our country. In these final days leading up to this historic event, GalleyCat asked a number of writers to comment on what the election means to them.

So far, author Barry Lopez talked about Sarah Palin and author Manuel Munoz reflected on university funding. Tune in tomorrow for another installment.