The main source of inspiration for In the Midst of Desolation arose primarily from famous 20th century English poet, Robert Laurence Binyon’s poem, For the Fallen. The poem was written in mid-September 1914, just after the outbreak of the First World War, and describes not only the psychological effect instilled in people, but its impact on all of England. In the Midst of Desolation strives to musically capture this fear and trepidation through its daunting and enigmatic beginning (portrayed by the low strings and winds), its violent and chaotic middle (represented by unison low strings/woodwinds playing chromatically furious lines that coincide with brass hits), and finally, its sacred and heavenly close, as all sections commence to play a chorale style melody leading to a brass fanfare. It is this fanfare that transcends all sorrow, anguish, and loss, knowing that “we will remember them” and that “to the end, they remain” in our spirit.