Literary notes about Lift (AI summary)
The word “lift” functions as a versatile verb in literature, carrying both literal and metaphorical weight. It can describe a tangible act—as when a box is hoisted in a moment of physical movement ([1]), a sword is raised in the midst of battle ([2]), or even a character is assisted onto a horse ([3])—while also signifying a metaphorical elevation of spirit or condition. Authors employ it to evoke the rise of hope, pride, or defiance, whether it’s in lifting a heart to spiritual heights ([4], [5]) or in the subtle boost of encouragement that alters one’s emotional state ([6]). Even in technical or scientific contexts, like noting the lift-to-drag ratio ([7]), the term underlines a dynamic interplay between force and ascent.
- And then I heard them lift a box, And creak across my soul With those same boots of lead, again.
— from Poems by Emily Dickinson, Three Series, Complete by Emily Dickinson - Then did he lift his sword to slay him; but the damsel cried aloud, “Slay him not, Beaumains, for he is a noble knight.”
— from The Legends of King Arthur and His Knights by Sir James Knowles and Sir Thomas Malory - Then lift her quickly on to the horse behind you; clap your spurs to his side, and gallop away as fast as you can.’
— from Grimms' Fairy Tales by Jacob Grimm and Wilhelm Grimm - I will lift up my hand to heaven, and I will say: I live for ever.
— from The Bible, Douay-Rheims, Complete - Let us lift up our hearts with our hands to the Lord in the heavens.
— from The Bible, Douay-Rheims, Complete - These kind words gave me a lift of encouragement.
— from Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda - The ratio of lift to drag is a measure of the efficiency of a wing-section.
— from The New Gresham Encyclopedia. A to Amide by Various