Louis Larsen worked as an English instructor for the majority of his adult life. In that time, he produced many works in both novels and poetry. Louis also worked as a ghost writer for many others, as well as newspapers throughout Utah. The works here represent those left to the family, both published and unpublished. Much of his work reflects a haunting feeling of loss, pain and betrayal. This comes from the loss of his son, Thomas Larsen, in World War II. Tom served with the 85th Mountain Infantry of the 10th Mountain Division, where he served with distinguished honor, and paid the ultimate price for his commitment. Tom lost his life on Riva Ridge, Mount Belvedere in February, 1945. This loss haunted Louis for the remainder of his life. Many of his poems reflect this pain and leave a legacy of the emotional priced paid in the wake of war.

Wednesday, November 5, 2014

Remembering

O radiant flowers, you will say
what only flowers can convey
When we come this hallowed way.

Touch him with a tenderness
Of blossoms in the wind's caress
At high tide of their loveliness.

Let him hear the muted word
That he will know, that he has heard
I petaled whispering to a bird.

Though flowers fade and memories dim
To echoes of a requiem
Our hands are reaching out to him.

(First published in Along the Lane: Dedicated to the memory of Thomas William Larsen, who lost his life in World War II)
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