Author

Chuck Haga

Chuck Haga was a reporter at the Grand Forks Herald and Minneapolis Star Tribune. He now teaches part-time at the University of North Dakota and writes a column for the Herald.

A veteran newsman teaches writing through music

A veteran newsman teaches writing through music

Chuck Haga and his students exchange favorite music of their generations to explore metaphor and meaning that can make writing sparkle
February 3, 2023
A retired newspaper man finds a new writing voice in the solitude of wilderness

A retired newspaper man finds a new writing voice in the solitude of wilderness

Every year, or as often as I can, I go into the northern Minnesota woods, usually alone now, seeking tranquility and time to brood and reflect.And I write while I’m…
August 24, 2021
In good writing, clarity is job one

In good writing, clarity is job one

After 40-some years of practicing journalism, I decided there was much I still had to learn about the craft. So I became a teacher. Any of you who have gone…
January 30, 2020
The story in the music — and the music in how the story is written

The story in the music — and the music in how the story is written

I fall to pieces every time I hear a recording of Patsy Cline singing “Crazy” or “Sweet Dreams” — or “I Fall to Pieces” — and it’s not just because…
September 26, 2019
Stories that beget stories

Stories that beget stories

Chuck Haga with his reading partner and story muse, granddaughter Emma. Haga says they have both aged since this picture was taken, but that Emma wears it better.EDITOR’S NOTE: Metrics…
July 18, 2019
Haunting old photos — and happenstance — launch a search for answers

Haunting old photos — and happenstance — launch a search for answers

 At first glance, it might seem an unlikely story from a veteran investigative reporter.  But it was those investigative instincts and skills that James Eli Shiffer used to report and…
July 17, 2019