Originally Posted by zkzkz

If they haven't even started processing it you might consider just telling them you need it back and will send in your application again later.

Alternately you can ring the US embassy and tell them the situation and ask if there's any way to get a second or temporary passport. Different countries do it differently. I know the UK issues second passports but other countries (I believe including the US) insist each person should only have one passport. It may still be possible to get temporary travel documents though.

Also, if you're a US citizen you may be able to travel to the US without a passport. Any proof of citizenship should be sufficient -- check the DHS site to see what they would accept. It does mean not being able to fly to other countries though.