Literary notes about Divan (AI summary)
The term “divan” in literature often denotes a long, cushioned piece of furniture that serves as both a setting for domestic intimacy and a stage for important social or political interactions. It appears in a variety of contexts, from the romantic and luxurious—suggesting sensual relaxation or artistic leisure—to practical meeting places for influential figures. For instance, in certain works it serves as the comfortable locus for casual conversation or introspection, as characters recline on it in refined surroundings [1][2], while in others it marks the seat of authority or a gathering spot for intellectuals and politicians [3][4]. This dual symbolism—combining the everyday with the exotic—renders the divan a versatile literary motif that underscores both personal comfort and culturally specific ambiance.
- “Think of buying old furniture, and bright carpets, and futurist silk curtains, and a polished dining-table, and a divan with lots of cushions.”
— from The Secret Adversary by Agatha Christie - And Lord Henry flung himself down on the divan, and opened his cigarette-case.
— from The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde - The Lepelletier divan was the place of meeting of a large number of Republican journalists.
— from The History of a Crime by Victor Hugo - Towards noon a Commissary of Police, named Boudrot, appeared at the divan of the Rue Lepelletier.
— from The History of a Crime by Victor Hugo
