Recalling the composition of Tom Thomson's famous Jack Pine, Lismer focuses on a lone tree in the foreground, presenting it anchored to its little island of rock and swept by brisk September winds. All of the shapes in A September Gale are precisely outlined -- the edges of the rocks, grass, and trees are sharp and clearly defined. Even though the composition is carefully drawn, it is anything but static: full of movement and energy created by the vigorous brush strokes, bold lines, and swirling colours. Through his powerful brushwork, vigorous lines and bold colours, Lismer creates a scene in which the turbulent waters mirror the dark stormy sky.