Literary notes about Clasp (AI summary)
The term “clasp” often conveys both a literal and metaphorical sense of holding or binding in literature. It appears as an expression of intimacy and trust, where characters physically embrace to signify affection or support, as seen when one character “clasp[s] you with my arm” ([1]) or “clasp[s] his arms about” another ([2]). At the same time, it is used more abstractly to illustrate the joining of ideas or bonds between people, evoking images of secure unions and heartfelt connections ([3], [4]). Moreover, “clasp” can refer to the mechanism of fastening objects—from the functional “clasp” on a belt or necklace ([5], [6]) to a symbolic seal of fate or unity ([7], [8]). This multifaceted usage enriches narratives by imbuing physical actions with deeper emotional resonance and symbolic meaning.
- Will you, I ask once more, show your belief in me by letting me clasp you with my arm?
— from Tess of the d'Urbervilles: A Pure Woman by Thomas Hardy - And I took the liberty to clasp my arms about his neck, and kissed him.
— from Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded by Samuel Richardson - The fact seemed an additional appeal to his pity: such innocence was as moving as the trustful clasp of a child.
— from The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton - At this the king his generous joy express'd, And clasp'd the warrior to his armed breast.
— from The Iliad by Homer - A consideration of various passages in which the Greek authors use the term leaves a distinct impression on one’s mind that a metal clasp is intended.
— from Surgical Instruments in Greek and Roman Times by John Stewart Milne - Then he took out a precious chain, put it round her neck, and fastened the clasp.
— from Household Tales by Brothers Grimm by Jacob Grimm and Wilhelm Grimm - What could it mean, but that Christ should clasp her to his breast, as a mother clasps her child?
— from The Rainbow by D. H. Lawrence - Quick these; they clasp their loved ones to their heart, one last time; with brief adieu, wet-eyed or dry-eyed, they mount, and are away.
— from The French Revolution: A History by Thomas Carlyle
