Esther Barnes
English Theme
November 21, 1932
Having my picture made is quite a novel experience to me. But of all days to have it made why was I given grade-card day? How could one possibly look pleasant after going through such a trying ordeal as that? And to make matters worse it had to snow and I detest snow.
My appointment was at a quarter of eight, Tuesday. My sister had promised to meet me at the studio, but how was I to get there? At half past six the cab offices were refusing calls, so it was impossible to go in a taxi. The only thing left to do was to go on the bus. I could imagine how bright and shining my face would be after walking three blocks to the bus. But I did, and the first thing my sister said was, “Oh, your face—it’s purple.” But there was nothing I could do about it, so we entered the studio.
Mr. Lytle, who knows my sister, has no idea of how much he cheered me by his greeting to my sister, “Ah, good evening, Miss Barnes, so this is the baby sister?”
He ushered us to a dressing room where I could arrange myself as neatly as possible. I removed my hat. Oh, dear, where were all those much petted and pampered waves? I’m positive they were there when I put on my hat. With a bitter feeling toward Nature because she had not endowed me with beautiful tresses similar to those of my sister, I arranged my hair, applied powder to my nose, which had changed to a beautiful reddish-blue, and added a touch of lip-stick. Well, I had done everything possible and still I looked a perfect mess.
I was placed in a chair and it seemed as if a million lights were turned on me. I felt like Greta Garbo having a close-up made. That candy-bar I ate for lunch didn’t help that “hicky” on my chin any, and I just know those freckles on my nose will be the most prominent part of the picture.
The photographer played peek-a-boo with me for a while. He’d look at me, then place a dark cover over his head, and then view me through the eyes of the camera. He came over to me and patted a stray hair in place. He bent closer to adjust my face—oh, why did I eat those onions for supper? Next he told me to look at a certain spot. I did but I didn’t see a thing. Then I was told to look in exactly the opposite direction. He told me to smile. I grinned and showed my teeth in what thought was my most charming smile but he immediately told me to shut my mouth. This continued for two more sittings and then it was all over. “Your proofs will be ready any time after four o’clock Thursday.”
Teacher’s comment: Ex