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Page:Social Dancing of To-day (1914) Kinney.djvu/41

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THE BOSTON
21

The foregoing movements of the One-step must be executed not only with fine regard to rhythm, but also to continuity. If they are not made to flow one into another, the effect is jerky and uncertain-looking.

THE BOSTON

The distinguishing step-combination of this very attractive dance is complete in one measure. Its essence is in a certain effect of syncopation, secured by keeping the weight on the same foot through two successive beats—contrary to the practice of transferring the weight with each beat, as in the old Waltz. Another peculiarity of the Boston is the carriage of the weight counter to the line of direction of travel, giving an effect of holding back. The dance is performed with deliberation; its execution aims at a rather grand style.

The dip characteristic of and named for the Boston is, in execution, the same as the dip described in connection with the One-Step (see photographs). The management of a sequence of dips as they occur in the Boston is, however, a matter for special attention, which will be given it in its place.

I. The essential step:

Man

Woman

raise left foot

On count "I," the entire weight is thrown upon the right foot ; and there it continues through the remainder of the bar. On count "2," swing the left foot forward into anterior fourth position, straightening the left knee, touching the floor with the point, as far forward as is possible without taking any of the weight off the