Remembering Hal Grutzmacher

Sadly, I never knew Hal Grutzmacher, whom this annual contest is named after, but it is clear when browsing the Pulse archives that he had an impact on many people. His legacy continues today through his friends and family, the Pulse, and former students.

Hal was a teacher, and his words of wisdom will trickle down ‘til the end of time. I know that sounds a bit hokey but think about it; Hal taught Alex Kuo and influenced him as a person, writer, and teacher. Alex Kuo then went on to teach Sherman Alexie, influencing him. Sherman Alexie will teach someone and influence them, and so on and so on. It is literally a never-ending legacy.

To commemorate Hal and the impact he has had on so many lives, we have pulled excerpts about Hal from the archives of Pulse Literary Issues. Enjoy!

“Throughout his adult life, Hal was first and foremost a teacher, and it is in this role as teacher that he would be most flattered to have his name associated with the Peninsula Pulse’s annual writing contest. In a way, he continues to encourage writers to practice and improve their craft even now.” ~ 2000

“Hal Gruzmacher showed many people the wonder of language while he was the proprietor of Passtimes Books of Sister Bay. From recommending reading lists to having heartfelt conversations with his patrons, Hal inspired many locals as well as Door County visitors to subscribe to the observation that all writing is interconnected and deeply woven into the human experience. We remember him fondly as one who loved the printed word.” ~ 2001

“The Hal Grutzmacher Award honors a man that promoted literacy and good writing throughout the Midwest.” ~ 2002

“His passion for the written word, as well as his desire to create an accessible, inviting environment for creativity is the tent under which this contest is conducted.” ~ 2008

“What the public may remember of Hal is his ability and desire to encourage persons to read and write. He had a good and skilled ear, says Stephen. He could read your stuff and provide criticism without telling you how it should be done. Hal seemed to stress two important elements in regard to creative ambition: individuality and craft – two elements that have influenced a number of individuals throughout Hal’s lifetime and have continued after his passing – as is evident throughout the following pages.” ~ 2008

“Sherman Alexie claimed in several published early interviews, I taught him everything he knew about writing and the life of a writer. What he really meant was, Hal Grutzmacher taught him everything he knew, word by word, with conviction.” ~ 2009 (Alex Kuo)