Write in the Heart of Hamburg—Tara Bergemann enhances a 100-plus-year Tradition
With more canals than Amsterdam and Venice combined, Hamburg, Germany, is a fascinating city to wander to explore. And that’s just what I was doing in September of 2018 when I happened across Dössel & Rademacher, a pen and paper shop serving locals and visitors since 1913. As a writer, I’m pretty devoted to finding cool pens and paper, and the shop’s window displays were very tempting. And since Lamy pens are cheaper in Germany, my husband and I charged in and got lost in goods and services for a couple of very exciting hours.
With absolutely no German beyond the pleasantries you pick up along the way, I didn’t want to barge up with questions. So I tried to keep my conversation to a minimum, but Tara, who had much more English that I will likely every have in her native language, showed me quickly that she was not bothered by language barriers or my very inquisitive nature. Together, we discussed pens, of course, but also similarities in our culture, her understanding of America, and the meaning behind one of her favorite sayings: ‘Her mit dem schönen leben!’ Loosely translated, it means ‘Give me that beautiful life!’
As you can see from Tara’s charming, warm smile, she is out there in the world creating that beautiful life—for herself and for those who get the chance to engage with her. If you are in Hamburg and have a penchant for pens and party favors, stop by and let Tara guide you to the best buys. Her warm spirit will stay with you long after the visit. Thank you, Clever Chica Tara, for sharing your light with us!