| The first excerpt represents the element of Air. It speaks of mental influences and the process of thought, and is drawn from Dead Souls by Nikolai Vasilievich Gogol: foolish years, when foolish things attract, the measure of affection
which Alexander Petrovitch retained was extraordinary. In fact, to the
day of his death, every former pupil would celebrate the birthday of
his late master by raising his glass in gratitude to the mentor dead
and buried--then close his eyelids upon the tears which would come
trickling through them. Even the slightest word of encouragement from
Alexander Petrovitch could throw a lad into a transport of tremulous
joy, and arouse in him an honourable emulation of his fellows. Boys of
small capacity he did not long retain in his establishment; whereas
those who possessed exceptional talent he put through an extra course
of schooling. This senior class--a class composed of
Dead Souls |
The second excerpt represents the element of Fire. It speaks of emotional influences and base passions, and is drawn from A Legend of Montrose by Walter Scott: of his chain.--Honest Ranald, you see how matters stand with us.
I shall find the means, I doubt not, of setting you at freedom.
Meantime, do as you see me do; clap your hand thus on the weasand
of this high and mighty prince, under his ruff, and if he offer
to struggle or cry out, fail not, my worthy Ranald, to squeeze
doughtily; and if it be AD DELIQUIUM, Ranald, that is, till he
swoon, there is no great matter, seeing he designed your gullet
and mine to still harder usage."
"If he offer at speech or struggle," said Ranald, "he dies by my
hand."
"That is right, Ranald--very spirited:--A thorough-going friend
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