Now we draw a horizontal line along our paper, and then hold up our pencil horizontally, so that it will answer for a straight line drawn across the body of the real goose (Fig. 148). This will represent the horizontal line on the paper. Noticing then the directions the outlines of the goose take from the horizontal line (represented by the pencil), we sketch them in on the paper, remembering that one of the most important things is to get the right directions of the lines.
Observe that in Fig. 149 the line G is directed to too high a point, and makes the body too thick and out of proportion.
In sketching it is best to make all lines straight instead of curves, for in this way we are more likely to get the right directions. Our first rough sketch of the goose ought to have something of the appearance of Fig. 150, and as we work it up more carefully it will become as nicely rounded as we could desire.
One of the most common faults a beginner is apt to commit is to try to do too much, either by choosing too great a subject, such as a large landscape, or by putting too many little things into the composition. Take care of the large things, and the little things will take care of themselves.
If our subject be a clump of trees at some distance, we should not attempt to draw in separate leaves, but endeavor to get the true shape of the tree, simply indicating the leaves by a few lines. Neither must we attempt, in our first sketches, to put in all the shadows we see; the strong principal ones are all that are necessary. A background of hills and trees should be merely suggested by a few lines, because the light striking upon them gives a very light appearance.
Draw as simply as possible. Ten pictures are spoiled by putting in too much work, where one is spoiled by too little.
Don’t be discouraged. Every effort will show improvement, if you really put your mind and heart in your work. As for