Rhyme Of Threes

In the stark simplicity of black and white photography, few images capture the essence of balance and intrigue quite like “Rhyme of Threes.” This dramatic photograph features three solitary trees standing as a wind break and visual barrier on the edge of a parking lot. A single light pole adds visual interest, livens the composition and add another “beat” to the harmony. The high-contrast tones create a sense of timeless drama that draws the viewer in; but, beyond its visual appeal, the title “Rhyme of Threes” evokes a deeper concept: the harmony or “rhyme” found in groupings of three, a pattern that resonates across literature and the visual arts.

Rhyme Of Threes ©2025 Eric Wells Hatheway

The Harmony of Threes in Visual Arts
In the world of visual composition, the number three holds a special power, often manifesting through principles like the rule of odds and the rule of thirds. The rule of odds suggests that compositions with an odd number of elements – such as three trees in our photograph – are more dynamic and engaging than even-numbered ones. This is because odd groupings create a natural focal point and encourage the eye to move around the image, fostering a sense of movement and interest rather than static symmetry. In “Rhyme of Threes,” the trio of trees forms a subtle triangle, drawing the viewer’s gaze from one to the next, evoking a rhythmic harmony that feels both balanced and alive.

Complementing this is the rule of thirds, a foundational guideline in art and photography where the canvas is divided into nine equal parts using two horizontal and two vertical lines. Key elements are placed along these lines or at their intersections to create a more compelling composition. This technique avoids centering subjects, which can feel monotonous, and instead promotes visual tension and balance. In our photograph, the trees are positioned off-center, aligning with these imaginary grid lines to heighten the dramatic effect and guide the viewer’s exploration of the negative space around them. Together, these principles illustrate how threes create a “harmony” that makes artworks more captivating, much like a poetic rhyme that lingers in the mind.

“Rhyme of Threes” isn’t just a snapshot of nature; it’s a visual poem that embodies the universal appeal of triads. Whether in the balanced asymmetry of visual arts or the rhythmic cadence of literature, the harmony of threes reminds us that sometimes, the simplest patterns hold the greatest power. Next time you encounter a trio – in a story, a painting, or even everyday life—pause and appreciate the subtle rhyme they create.