Literary notes about Alert (AI summary)
In literature, the word "alert" encompasses both a physical and mental readiness that lends immediacy and depth to a scene. It can describe a character’s vigilant, keen awareness—as when one is listening with ears on the alert or poised for unexpected danger [1], [2]—or highlight an enduring state of intellectual acuity, where attention is sharply focused on the surrounding events [3], [4]. In adventure and action narratives, being alert often signals the readiness to react at a moment’s notice, whether aboard a ship [5], or in the midst of anticipated conflict [6]. At the same time, authors use "alert" to infuse characters with a dynamic, spirited energy, portraying them as both perceptive and quick to seize upon opportunities or threats [7], [8]. Overall, the term enriches literary description by bridging physical vigilance and mental precision in diverse settings [9], [10].
- All three then sat down with their heads together and their ears on the alert.
— from The three musketeers by Alexandre Dumas and Auguste Maquet - He awoke in an evil temper, and Kemp, alert for every sound, heard his pattering feet rush suddenly across the bedroom overhead.
— from The Invisible Man: A Grotesque Romance by H. G. Wells - The eye must be educated to be alert, discriminating, and microscopic.
— from Pushing to the Front by Orison Swett Marden - In Greek life, observation was acute and alert; and thinking was free almost to the point of irresponsible speculations.
— from Democracy and Education: An Introduction to the Philosophy of Education by John Dewey - When I stepped aboard, the second mate called me aft, and gave me a large bundle, directed to me, and marked "Ship Alert."
— from Two Years Before the Mast by Richard Henry Dana - He was instructed to notify his officers to be on the alert for any indications of battle.
— from Personal Memoirs of U. S. Grant, Complete by Ulysses S. Grant - “Well, I don't,” he said, stubbornly, yet nervous and alert for what should come next.
— from Sister Carrie: A Novel by Theodore Dreiser - “One saunters along, head up, mind alert, and eyes open.
— from Complete Original Short Stories of Guy De Maupassant by Guy de Maupassant - he protested, suddenly sitting up, alert and angry.
— from Howards End by E. M. Forster - He was small, nervous, alert with intelligent light-blue eyes and mobile features.
— from The Return of Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle