Harvey Oxenhorn 1952-1990
He was an American academic and author most famous for writing the book, “Tuning the Rig”. He was the Director of the Public Policy Communications Program at Harvard University. Oxenhorn was born in New York City. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree at Swarthmore College and a Doctorate in English from Stanford University. His doctoral thesis was entitled "Elemental Things: The Poetry of Hugh MacDiarmid". He taught at both Stanford and Tufts University before accepting a position at Harvard, first as an instructor, and then as Director in 1983. In addition to nonfiction, he also wrote poetry. His work was included in such publications as The Atlantic, Ploughshares, and The Southern Review. He spent a considerable amount of time in writer's retreats such as the MacDowell Colony and Yaddo. “Tuning the Rig”, a nonfiction account of Oxenhorn's time at sea on a scientific whaling expedition, was reviewed favorably. His doctoral thesis was also revised into a book and received positive reviews. Oxenhorn was in the process of writing a book about his experiences with teaching children in Kenya when he died in an automotive crash in Hillside, New York. His funeral service was held at the Essex Shipbuilding Museum.
Larry Clark
Larry Clark
Larry Clark
Larry Clark
Larry Clark
Larry Clark
Larry Clark
Larry Clark
Larry Clark
Larry Clark
Senior year Harvey and I were having a few beers, sharing some weed, listening to music at the 106 Cornell House. At some point Harvey turned to me and said "Larry, If I die before you do, here are the songs I want you to play at my memorial service." I laughed and said "Sure Harvey."
In 1990, Ann Benjamin (Class of 1973) and I drove up to Boston for Harvey's Memorial Service, His literary friends spole first. Peter Canby then delivered a warm, delightful, and sometimes funny eulogy focused mainly on their shared adventures. Finally, it was time for people in the audience to say a word if they wanted. I stood up and explained what I was about to do. I turned on my boombox and played the three tunes Harvey wanted to have played at his service.
- Stuck Inside of Mobile with the Memphis Blues Again, Bob Dylan
- a second song I can't remmeber after 32 years. I believe is was Aretha's Respect.
- Finally, Moondance by Van Morrison. Harvey's favorite song.
I am sorry I could not join you for our Saturday reunion dinner and dance. To honor Harvey and to be a part of the reuion, last Saturday night I turned on my stereo, turned my outside speakers up to LOUD and played Harvey's songs one more time.
It has been 32 years since his death. I still miss him.