Fig. 160
In this design I repeat an inversion of the arrangement in [Fig. 158]. The result is a symmetry, and no one is likely to ask whether the elements of which it is composed are harmonious or not. By inversions, single and double, it is possible to achieve the Order of Balance, in all cases.
Fig. 161
For this design I have made another arrangement of my seven lines. The arrangement suggests movement. In repeating the arrangement at regular and equal intervals, without change of attitude, I produce the effect of Rhythm. Without resorting to inversion, it is difficult to make even an approximation to Symmetry with such terms ([see Fig. 157]), but there is little or no difficulty in making a consistent or fairly consistent movement out of them, which, being repeated at regular intervals, without change of attitude, or with a gradual change of attitude, will produce the effect of Rhythm.
Up to this point I have spoken of the composition of lines in juxtaposition, that is to say, the lines have been placed near together so as to be seen together. I have not spoken of the possibilities of Contact and Interlacing. The lines in any composition may touch one another or cross one another. The result will be a composition of connected lines. In certain cases the lines will become the outlines of areas. I will defer the illustration of contacts and interlacings until I come to consider the composition of outlines.