Death of Bent Larsen

Several days ago, veteran Grandmaster Bent Larsen left us.  The Dane was the strongest player ever produced by Scandinavia until the recent emergence of Norway's sensational teenage star Magnus Carlsen.  Larsen was among the Best in the West (non-Soviet players) from the late 1950s through the 1970s, winning many international tournaments and more than once coming close to a World Championship match.  His individualistic style and renowned fighting spirit propelled him to many important victories, including over several former, then-current, and future World Chess Champions.  His friendly, easygoing manner made him a favorite among the world's chess elite.  He will be sorely missed.  To paraphrase The Bard, "There is something missing in the state of Denmark."