Introduction
In 1819, while on a five-year visit to England, American author Washington Irving began publishing his ‘Sketches’, which included the famous tale of Rip van Winkle. There were also a number of affectionately teasing reflections on the English. This extract from ‘Sunday in London’ picks up the Englishman as he makes his devotions in the parish church.
For a time every thing is hushed; but soon is heard the deep, pervading sound of the organ, rolling and vibrating through the empty lanes and courts; and the sweet chanting of the choir making them resound with melody and praise. Never have I been more sensible of the sanctifying effect of church music, than when I have heard it thus poured forth, like a river of joy, through the inmost recesses of this great metropolis, elevating it, as it were, from all the sordid pollutions of the week; and bearing the poor world-worn soul on a tide of triumphant harmony to heaven.
The morning service is at an end. The streets are again alive with the congregations returning to their homes, but soon again relapse into silence. Now comes on the Sunday dinner, which, to the city tradesman, is a meal of some importance. There is more leisure for social enjoyment at the board.
Précis
Writing affectionately of Sunday morning in London, Washington Irving watched the Englishman enter the parish church, and described how deep an impression the sound of sacred music spilling out into the quiet streets had made on him. He then followed his subject home to dinner, a meal of more than usual significance for the family.
(55 / 60 words)
Writing affectionately of Sunday morning in London, Washington Irving watched the Englishman enter the parish church, and described how deep an impression the sound of sacred music spilling out into the quiet streets had made on him. He then followed his subject home to dinner, a meal of more than usual significance for the family.
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Variations:
1.increase the length of this precis to exactly 60 words.
2.reduce the length of this precis to exactly 50 words.
3.introduce one of the following words into the precis: about, although, if, just, may, must, until, who.
Word Games
Suggest answers to this question. See
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seven words.
Variations:
1.expand your answer to exactly fourteen words.
2.expand your answer further, to exactly twenty-one words.
3.include one of the following words in your answer: if, but, despite, because, (al)though, unless.
Express the ideas below in a single
sentence, using different words as much as possible.
Do not be satisfied with the first answer you
think of; think of several, and choose the best.
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