Literary notes about Iterate (AI summary)
In literature, the word "iterate" is often employed to convey the act of repeating or emphasizing a point. It carries a dual role as both a definition—denoting the redoubling or repeating of an idea, as noted by its Latin derivation [1]—and as a rhetorical tool that augments a narrative’s rhythm and persuasive power. For instance, a character may use it to methodically reinforce a judgment or sentiment, as illustrated by the systematic declaration of opinions [2] and the deliberate restatement of warnings [3]. In other contexts, repetition of phrases contributes to the musicality or satirical cadence of a work, with its iterative quality drawing attention to the unfolding theme [4, 5]. This layered use of "iterate" demonstrates its versatility in enhancing both the structural and emotive elements of literary expression [6].
- Iteráre, to iterate, to redouble, to repeate.
— from Queen Anna's New World of Words; or, Dictionarie of the Italian and English Tongues by John Florio - I prefer to iterate the verdict of all logical people, and formally to register my opinion that Robert Herrick was indisputably a lunatic.
— from The Certain Hour (Dizain des Poëtes) by James Branch Cabell - Joan made up her mind to iterate in person to the English the warnings she had given them in her letter.
— from A Popular History of France from the Earliest Times, Volume 3 by François Guizot - Ben Jonson's Alchemist, ii. 1:— 'For look, how oft I iterate the work, So many times I add unto his virtue'; &c. 686.
— from Chaucer's Works, Volume 5 (of 7) — Notes to the Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer - “Joan and David—partners, eh? Joan and David—partners,” Tudor began to iterate and reiterate in a malicious and scornful chant.
— from Adventure by Jack London - All they could do was to iterate their master's maxim, and declare everything to be in flux.
— from The Life of Reason: The Phases of Human Progress by George Santayana