In Pictures and in Words: Chapter 9

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Technique 27:  When I read about the technique of creating artful repetition I immediately thought of this wonderful book by Simms Taback.  This is a story of a man named Joseph whose overcoat becomes worn.  Instead of throwing it away, he remakes the overcoat into a jacket, then a vest, next a scarf, then a necktie, a handkerchief, and at last a button.  

This book has amazing illustrations. Each picture has so much to explore.  The simple text repeats the line, "Joseph had a little __________. It got old and worn."  Each time the text is repeated the overcoat is transformed into a new, but smaller item.   Taback uses die-cut holes on these pages to give clues to the reader of what the overcoat will become next.   When Joseph loses his button, he preserves his memories by writing a book about his overcoat. Joseph writing the book completes the story, makes it feel whole, and gives the story a sense of purpose.  The lesson taught by Joseph in his book, "You can always make something out of nothing."   

This chapter is being hosted by Cheryl at Primary Graffiti.