Literary notes about Bow (AI summary)
Throughout literature, the term "bow" wears many hats, shifting seamlessly from a symbol of martial prowess to an emblem of courteous deference and even ornamental beauty. In epic narratives, authors depict heroes bending their bows as a prelude to battle, emphasizing strength and precision in archery ([1], [2], [3]), while other texts employ the noun to describe decorative elements, as in a flamboyant ribbon or an elegant hair accessory ([4]). In contrast, the verb "to bow" often illustrates respectful submission or humble acknowledgment, serving as a subtle marker of social hierarchy and personal humility ([5], [6], [7]). This duality not only enriches character actions and descriptions but also illustrates the word’s enduring versatility across genres—from ancient poetry to modern prose.
- Except you will be converted, he will brandish his sword; he hath bent his bow, and made it ready. 7:14.
— from The Bible, Douay-Rheims, Complete - He hastened then with graceful ease That mighty bow and shaft to seize.
— from The Rámáyan of Válmíki, translated into English verse by Valmiki - None that is weak in strength could string that bow, and none of mean birth and unaccomplished in arms could have shot down the mark.
— from The Mahabharata of Krishna-Dwaipayana Vyasa, Volume 1 - Her sandy hair was tortured into innumerable kinky and unnatural curls, surmounted by a flamboyant bow of pink ribbon bigger than her head.
— from Anne of Avonlea by L. M. Montgomery - "'Master,' I cried, 'again and again I bow before you!
— from Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda - Elizabeth answered only by a slight bow.
— from Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen - He comprehended everybody present, in the respectful bow with which he followed these words, and disappeared.
— from David Copperfield by Charles Dickens
