Literature employs the color "dark red" in a variety of evocative ways. In descriptions of nature and architecture, authors use dark red to delineate harsh landscapes and striking structures—for example, the dark red cliffs that frame Polkerwyck Bay [1] or the tall, circular structure painted dark red [2]. The hue also lends an air of richness and intensity to attire and decoration, as seen in the frock of dark red with golden accents [3] and a dinner‐gown of dark red velvet [4], evoking both lavishness and mood. Moreover, dark red often symbolizes strong emotions or states of being: a sudden flush of dark red on a face conveys embarrassment or anger [5, 6, 7], while the dark red of blood or fruit can suggest vitality or danger. In each case, "dark red" transcends its literal meaning, acting instead as a nuanced emblem of atmosphere, character, and the passionate undercurrents of human experience.
- On either hand dark red cliffs cut the skyline, forming the extremities of Polkerwyck Bay.
— from The Scouts of Seal Island by Percy F. (Percy Francis) Westerman
- The building he had indicated was a tall circular structure, painted a dark red, with a small cupola effect crowning its top.
— from The Circus Boys on the Plains; Or, The Young Advance Agents Ahead of the Show by Edgar B. P. Darlington
- She had cast her neutral tints, and appeared in a frock of dark red, with a band of gold in her dusky hair, somberly rich.
— from Guild Court: A London Story by George MacDonald
- The portière was pushed aside and madame swept into the room in a dinner-gown of dark red velvet.
— from The Gate of the Giant Scissors by Annie F. (Annie Fellows) Johnston
- The sarcasm in this last brought a dark red into Duncan’s face, but he successfully concealed his resentment and smiled.
— from The Trail to Yesterday by Charles Alden Seltzer
- cried the baronet violently, striking the table with his fist, while his face flushed dark red.
— from Dust: A Novel by Julian Hawthorne
- His head was high, his face dark red and angry, his brows drawn down until the gleaming eyes beneath were like pin points.
— from Audrey by Mary Johnston