A theory of pure design

by Denman Waldo Ross

Fig. 109

In this case the movement is in the direction of increasing concentration and in the direction of the convergences.

If the movement of the convergences be contrary to the movement of concentration, there will be in the figure a contrary motion which may diminish or even entirely prevent the feeling of Rhythm. If the movement in one direction or the other predominates, we may still get the feeling of Rhythm, in spite of the drawback of the other and contrary movement.

Fig. 110

In this case the linear convergences substituted for the straight lines are contrary to the direction of increasing concentration. The movement is doubtful.

86. Corresponding rhythms, set in contrary motion, give us the feeling of Balance rather than of Rhythm. The balance in such cases is a balance of movements.

Fig. 111

This is an example of corresponding and opposed rhythms producing the feeling, not of Rhythm, but of Balance.