Author Gerd Spiekermann receives Fritz Reuter Literature Prize
Author Gerd Spiekermann, who writes in Low German, has been awarded this year's Fritz Reuter Literature Prize. The prize is in recognition of his audio book "Reeg di nich up!", announced the town of Stavenhagen (Mecklenburg Lake District) and the local Fritz Reuter Literature Museum.
The stories are thought-provoking and cheerful, and Spiekermann presents them with great artistry, according to the jury's statement. The "excellent Low German" in the audio book was also highlighted. The award is traditionally presented on November 7, the birthday of the poet Fritz Reuter (1810-1874), this year for the 25th time.
Award winner Spiekermann was born in the Lower Saxon community of Ovelgönne (Wesermarsch district) and lives in Hamburg. The 71-year-old has already won several awards for his Low German stories.
The Fritz Reuter Prize, endowed with 3000 euros, is awarded for new literature in Low German or for linguistic and literary works. This year, the Tüdelband from Hamburg receives a special prize of 1000 euros for the album "Koppheister". For the first time, the town of Stavenhagen is also awarding an unendowed honorary prize. This award goes to Renate Drefahl, Chairwoman of the Reuter Museums Association.
Fritz Reuter ("Kein Hüsung") is considered one of the most famous writers of his time who wrote in Low German. As his father was mayor, he grew up in the town hall of Stavenhagen. The museum is located there today. Reuter also lived in Neubrandenburg, where the Reuter Society is based today, and in Eisenach in Thuringia.
Spiekermann's literary achievements in Low German have garnered him numerous awards, showcasing the recognition and appreciation of Low German literature among people. The language itself, a significant part of German culture, is celebrated and honored through the annual Fritz Reuter Literature Prize.
Source: www.dpa.com
