The distinctively visual is a prominent characteristic in which the composer shapes a unique visual perspective for the responder to interpret. Using a variety of techniques and languages, the composer is distinctively able to create vibrant and lively visualisations within their work. The poetry of Douglas Stewart, in particular ‘Lady feeding the cats’ and ‘Nesting time’ and the image of ‘’Firefighters at twin towers attack’’ photographed by Todd Maisel are particularly effective. Douglas’ poems uniquely portray ordinary people and outsiders at touching and meaningful moments, experiences and connection with nature that creates an image to the reader the relationship of man and nature and how nature can challenge man with its actions. The photograph deals with a specific moment in time that captures and conveys the powerful life changing impact of the 9/11 disaster and shows devastating and appalling situation to the viewer. These texts not only bring to life others and their experiences but visually seek a connection with the viewer that enriches their own experiences through creating an image of the lively visualisations around us.
The poem, ‘Lady feeding the cats’ by Douglas Stewart is distinctively visual as it challenges the reader to move beyond first impressions. The responder is led to reassess how we view people and places and the assumptions made about them. The poet does this by firstly confirming the preconceptions of the woman, the cats and her physical environment. This is evident in stanza one through Stewart’s use of visual imagery; ‘’broken shoes, slums weather stains’’ explaining to the reader the economic standing of the woman in the world and her physical being as she moves forward to feeding the cats. This is reinforced by the sibilance providing a striking visual image of the physical and economic hardship. However, in stanza 3 the woman is portrayed to be acquainted with respect by the cats as they get their feeding.