In the world of literature, every writer has their own pantheon of influences. For Brian Bartels of Madison, a particular muse stands out among the rest, one who never graced a bestseller list but holds a special place in his heart.
A Grandfather’s Literary Legacy
When asked about his literary influences, many might mention renowned names like Joan Didion, John Steinbeck, or Toni Morrison. However, for Brian Bartels, the most impactful writer in his life was his grandfather, Roland Bartels. Though Rollie, as he was affectionately known, never published a bestseller, his impact was profound.
Rollie’s journey into writing began after his retirement in the early 1980s. Residing in Shawano, Wisconsin, Rollie sought to break away from the typical pastimes of his peers, such as hunting and fishing. Instead, he pursued a local writing class, becoming the only man among six women and a teacher.
Despite battling arthritis, which made writing by hand difficult, Rollie turned to typing. His wife, Stella, bought him a typewriter, and at 72, he embarked on his writing journey, crafting one page a day with a singular focus: to capture the world around him.
Finding Inspiration in Writing
Writers often draw inspiration from different sources. Some write to find themselves, like Andrea Gibson, who writes to remember and heal. Others, like Nicole Krauss, find writing to be a clearer form of expression. Paulo Coehlo views writing as a way to transform sadness into longing.
Anne Lamott’s insights in “Bird By Bird” reflect on familial inspiration, stating, “Ever since I was a little kid, I’ve thought that there was something noble and mysterious about writing, about the people who could do it well, who could create a world as if they were little gods or sorcerers.”
Rollie’s thoughts on writing can be found in a framed letter displayed at Joseph Leonard, a restaurant in New York’s Greenwich Village. Titled “Why Write?”, the letter encapsulates his reflections on the art of writing and its significance in his life.
The Impact of “Why Write?”
Brian Bartels, who helped open Joseph Leonard in 2009, shared how the restaurant’s owner, Gabriel Stulman, was moved by Rollie’s letter. It became a focal point at the restaurant, sparking discussions among patrons and even capturing the attention of celebrities like Robin Wright.
The letter’s popularity led to frequent thefts of the framed copy, prompting the restaurant to offer copies at the bar and later as postcards. Rollie’s words, though penned for personal reflection, resonated widely, inspiring a new generation of readers and writers.
Rollie’s passion for writing, discovered later in life, was summed up in his own words: “I just love putting words on paper. I wish I found this out earlier in life.” His legacy continues to inspire those who encounter his story and his writing.
“Wisconsin Life” is a co-production of Wisconsin Public Radio and PBS Wisconsin. The project celebrates what makes the state unique through the diverse stories of its people, places, history, and culture.
