III. HOW TO ACQUIRE THE IMAGING HABIT

 

You remember the American statesman who asserted that "the way to resume is to

resume"? The application is obvious. Beginning with the first simple analyses of

this chapter, test your own qualities of image-making. One by one practise the

several kinds of images; then add--even invent--others in combination, for many

images come to us in complex form, like the combined noise and shoving and hot

odor of a cheering crowd.

 

After practising on reproductive imaging, turn to the productive, beginning with

the reproductive and adding productive features for the sake of cultivating

invention.

 

Frequently, allow your originating gifts full swing by weaving complete

imaginary fabrics--sights, sounds, scenes; all the fine world of fantasy lies

open to the journeyings of your winged steed.

 

In like manner train yourself in the use of figurative language. Learn first to

distinguish and then to use its varied forms. _When used with restraint_,

nothing can be more effective than the trope; but once let extravagance creep in

by the window, and power will flee by the door.

 

All in all, master your images--let not them master you.