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 The works here represent those left to the family, both published and unpublished.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.

Sunday, November 9, 2014

Riven Tree

Why, riven tree
On the silent hill,

Do you doff your robe
When the winds grow chill

Or bare your breast
To the sting of sleet

As you brace yourself
On clinging feet?

Is your moment come
When the sun again

Will bid the exit
Of the storm

And you put your
Lovely raiment on

To hold a starling
In your arm?

(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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