| The first excerpt represents the element of Air. It speaks of mental influences and the process of thought, and is drawn from McTeague by Frank Norris: The rain persisted. Everything in the range of Trina's
vision, from the tarpaulins on the market-cart horses to the
panes of glass in the roof of the public baths, looked
glazed and varnished. The asphalt of the sidewalks shone
like the surface of a patent leather boot; every hollow in
the street held its little puddle, that winked like an eye
each time a drop of rain struck into it.
Trina still continued to work for Uncle Oelbermann. In the
mornings she busied herself about the kitchen, the bedroom,
and the sitting-room; but in the afternoon, for two or three
hours after lunch, she was occupied with the Noah's ark
McTeague |
The second excerpt represents the element of Fire. It speaks of emotional influences and base passions, and is drawn from Desert Gold by Zane Grey: Belding was a raging fire within, cold without. He watched Gale,
and believed he could foretell that young man's future conduct.
Gale gathered Nell up into his arms and held her to his breast
for a long moment.
"Dear Nell, I'm sure the worst of your trouble is over," he said
gently. "I will not give you up. Now, won't you lie down, try
to rest and calm yourself. Don't grieve any more. This thing
isn't so bad as you make it. Trust me. I'll shut Mr. Radford
Chase's mouth."
As he released her she glanced quickly up at him, then lifted
appealing hands.
Desert Gold |
