XXXVII. Translation of Plain into Figurative Language, 115 AIDS TO ENGLISH COMPOSITION. I: OBJECTS AND THEIR PARTS. The first step to be taken in writing composition is to obtain ideas. The second is the proper expression of the idea when obtained. To acquire ideas, it is necessary to cultivate habits of observation; to use the eyes not only in noticing entire objects, but also their different parts; to consider their qualities, uses, operations, and effects; together with their relation to other things. The mind employed in such processes acquires materials for its own operations, and thoughts and ideas arise as it were spontaneously. For the first exercise in composition, therefore, it is proposed that the student be required to enumerate the parts of some visible object, according to the following Exercises. In a similar manner enumerate the parts of the following objects The parts of a visible object having been noticed, the next step to be taken is the enumeration of its qualities and uses according to the following For windows to admit light: For spectacles to assist sight: For useful vessels, such as tumblers, pitchers, decanters, wine-glasses, jelly-glasses, bottles, phials, inkstands, lamps, and lamp-glasses, chandeliers, handles of doors and drawers, vases, cups, and ornaments, such as beads, drops, prisms, &c. |