Friends of Bill Holm

Bill Holm's death in February rippled through the Minnesota literary community like the aftermath of a boulder dropped into the middle of a pond. Every writer in the land of 10,000 lakes, it seemed, had a story about Holm, or a tale of being deeply touched and influenced by his works. Holm was born on a farm in rural Minnesota, and lived in the state his entire life, except for summers that he spent at his house on a fjord in Iceland. The essayist and poet taught at Southwest State University for 27 years, helping to produce a generation of writers in tune with their roots and natural habitats. Now his friends and fans are throwing a remembrance party for Holm at the Fitzgerald Theater. Writers Robert Bly, Legends of the Fall author Jim Harrison, Milkweed Editions founder Emilie Buchwald, and many others will remember Holm. There'll be live music including brass band the Southside Aces, who will lead the gathering on a New Orleans-style funeral procession out onto Exchange Street. Fittingly, Holm, who penned more than 12 books in all, and who was known for his love of Iceland and vodka, will be toasted with his favorite drink, Reyka Vodka. Proceeds will benefit the Bill Holm fund for authors, artists, and community programs.
Tue., April 14, 7:30 p.m., 2009