If a picture is well composed, the main features stand out so distinctly that one can catch a good general idea of the whole picture at a glance. Further study will reveal additional details but will not change the first general impression.

Now a description is a picture in words. So you see that in making such a picture you should give the chief elements first. The hearer or reader should get a clear picture in the first sentences. Then additional details should be added. In what general order should they be added?

Exercise 146. Arranging Elements Of A Description. Class Discussion

Some of the elements in a Minnesota view are given below. Imagine that you are standing on a bluff, not far from the edge, and are facing the valley beyond it. Arrange the points in what seems to you a good order. Your picture is to give the impression of a broad view. Be able to give reasons for your arrangement. In class, compare and discuss the arrangements made by different pupils. As you decide upon an arrangement, make a diagram on the blackboard.

Sky deep blue.

Group of graceful elms in the foreground at my left.

In the distance at the left the hills grow higher and higher and finally seem to meet the sky.

Masses of feathery white clouds.

At the right in the far distance a forest limiting the view.

A small river at the foot of the bluff.

A flock of black birds crossing the river and settling in the elm trees.

At the foot of the bluff, a little to the right, a small town half hidden by trees.

Rolling prairies stretching for miles beyond the river.

Between you and the elms a field covered with flowers, - white, pink, rose, and crimson.

Farm buildings surrounded by groves dotting the prairie.

Grass and flowers at my feet and at the right.

Exercise 147. Rearranging The Elements Of The Description

Add to the elements given in the last exercise a low white farm house somewhere in the foreground. Arrange the elements of another picture. This time you want to leave the impression of a pleasant country home instead of a broad view. Decide upon your point of view and do not change it. You may wish to omit some of the elements of the other picture and add new ones.

Topics For Oral And Written Compositions

1. Some scene you are familiar with.

It may be in the city, the country, or a small town. Close observation will be necessary. Use your eyes before you try to write. Choose main features carefully and add only the most interesting details. See if the class can tell what scene you have described and from what point of view you saw it.

2. A pleasant room.

Not all persons like the same kind of room. Don't choose one because other persons like it, or because you think you ought to like it. Think of a real room that you enjoy being in yourself, or imagine one that seems attractive to you. Then describe it so that others will see why you like it.

3. The children's ward of a city hospital.

4. The library building.

5. My favorite automobile. Have illustration if possible.

6. An ideal school yard.

7. A "sky scraper."

8. An ocean vessel.