Review of Plots and Personalities. A new method of Testing and Training the Creative Imagination

Abstract

Reviews the book, Plots and Personalities. A new method of Testing and Training the Creative Imagination by Edwin E. Slosson and June E. Downey. The attempt to cultivate ability to write is no new thing but specific suggestions as to how latent capacity may be brought into activity are rare. Such concrete suggestions are presented by the authors of this volume. It is certain that the writer must discipline himself through exercise of his/her gift. For practice most interesting exercises are offered. For self-rating, also, these exercises are full of suggestion. Dr. Downey's technical studies of the psychology of literature have given her the knowledge concerning the mechanism of creative writing that she so delightfully presents. Being herself a creative writer she is all the more fitted to speak with authority. Dr Slosson's gift for discussing technical and abstract subjects in the language of every-day and in a style that makes the road to learning an easy one to travel is well known. Another point of interest is whether or not imagination can be cultivated. This question the authors answer in the affirmative and discuss the importance of mental set, release of inhibitions, cultivation of the emotions, in the training of the imagination. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)