Brinkman, Michael W.
February 23, 1943 -
Place of Birth: Milwaukee, WI
Place of Principal Residence: Alpena, MI
Biography:
Michael W. Brinkman was born to John and Phyllis Brinkman in Milwaukee, WI on February 23, 1943. As soon as he earned his Bachelor’s degree at Indiana State University, Brinkman began teaching. He taught Latin at Dryer Center High School, taught at Merriville High School, taught psychology, world religion, and general business in Alpena public schools. Knowing and teaching Latin fostered his love for words and sentence structures; his interests in psychology and religion provided insight into the life of the mind. Poetry combined these two loves: words and introspection. He published several works (Poetry for Peoples and Verse Diverse) before furthering his own education, earning a Master’s degree from St. Mary’s College and a PhD from the University of Michigan. Though Brinkman transitioned from the world of teaching in 1972 to act as president of Brinkman Enterprises, his work with young people continued as he and his wife Lois raised their five daughters and one son. He and Lois currently live in Alpena, MI.
Selected Works:
- Poetry for Peoples (1970)
- Verse Diverse (1973)
- In Pursuit of the Tuit (1976)
Relevance of Place to Author’s Work:
Brinkman’s experience as a teacher has greatly influenced his writing. It is evident from the titles of Brinkman’s work that he greatly enjoys his occupation. Books such as Poetry for Peoples, The Wordsmith, and My Own Busy Bee Book betray the author’s bent for poetry and instruction. He says, “I write poetry because I’m a poet, I am a lover—a lover of mankind in general and individuals specifically…I want my readers to disclose themselves first and foremost; to be honest with themselves…”