Literary notes about Encumbered (AI summary)
The term "encumbered" in literature conveys a sense of being burdened or weighed down, whether by physical objects or abstract forces. Authors employ it to depict characters hindered by tangible impediments such as heavy clothing, cumbersome equipment, or obstructive debris, as seen when a character struggles with gear that restricts his movement [1] or when clothing seems to glue the body in place [2]. At the same time, the word carries a metaphorical weight, describing institutions, ideas, or legacies burdened by outdated traditions and obligations [3] or estates saddled with financial liabilities [4]. In each instance, "encumbered" enriches the narrative by illustrating how both tangible and intangible encumbrances can impede progress or movement.