Literary notes about Decision (AI summary)
The term “decision” in literature emerges as a multifaceted concept, often embodying both the moment of choice and its consequential weight. In some texts, it signifies the pivotal turning point in a character’s life—such as the moment that “was to rob me of or bestow happiness on me for ever” ([1]) or when a character “had arrived at his decision” ([2]). In other works, “decision” operates in more formal contexts, such as legal or political rulings, where it denotes judgments that are both binding and unchallengeable; for example, the Sultan’s decree in Andrew Lang’s narrative ([3]) or the unassailable judgments in Masonic law ([4], [5]). Moreover, the word conveys a sense of resolve or determination when used adjectivally, as seen in moments when actions are executed “with decision” like in Jane Austen’s character portrayal ([6]). Whether emphasizing internal conflict, external judgment, or the decisive moment in strategy and life, the literature employs “decision” as a critical element that defines both character and conflict across diverse contexts.
- This, I thought, was the moment of decision, which was to rob me of or bestow happiness on me for ever.
— from Frankenstein; Or, The Modern Prometheus by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley - He had arrived at his decision.
— from Project Gutenberg Compilation of Short Stories by Chekhov by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov - The three Princes had nothing to say against the decision of the Sultan.
— from The Blue Fairy Book by Andrew Lang - Freemasonry differs from all other institutions, in permitting no appeal to the lodge from the decision of the presiding officer.
— from The Principles of Masonic Law by Albert Gallatin Mackey - In deciding points of order as well as graver matters, no appeal can be taken from that decision to the lodge.
— from The Principles of Masonic Law by Albert Gallatin Mackey - '—If he would say so to her at once, in the tone of decision becoming a man, there would be no opposition made to his going.”
— from Emma by Jane Austen
