Literary notes about Loath (AI summary)
In literature, the adjective "loath" is frequently used to convey a deep sense of reluctance or unwillingness that adds emotional depth and nuance to character decisions. Authors employ it to illustrate internal conflicts—a character who is loath to kill, to part with cherished speech, or to betray a friend captures a compelling ambivalence toward action, as seen in works by Bunyan [1], Twain [2], and Shakespeare [3][4]. This term often underscores moral dilemmas or tender attachments, whether it is the hesitation to leave a beloved place [5][6] or the quiet resistance to engage in harmful deeds [7][8]. Through its carefully measured cadence, "loath" enriches passages by spotlighting the inner struggle that can propel narratives forward and deepen our understanding of character motivations [9][10].
- Then they fought for their lives, and Giant Despair was brought down to the ground, but was very loath to die.
— from The Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan Every Child Can Read by John Bunyan - The people are loath to kill them—do not kill them, in fact.
— from The Innocents Abroad by Mark Twain - I would be loath to cast away my speech; for, besides that it is excellently well penn'd, I have taken great pains to con it.
— from The Complete Works of William Shakespeare by William Shakespeare - To speak so indirectly I am loath; I would say the truth; but to accuse him so, That is your part.
— from The Complete Works of William Shakespeare by William Shakespeare - Either I am loath to leave her, or I see she’s dull alone.
— from Anna Karenina by graf Leo Tolstoy - So snug and warm was it, that he was loath to leave it when Francois distributed the fish which he had first thawed over the fire.
— from The call of the wild by Jack London - For I am loath to break our country's laws.
— from The Complete Works of William Shakespeare by William Shakespeare - John Canty replied, in a stern and measured voice— “It is plain thou art mad, and I am loath to punish thee; but if thou provoke me, I must.
— from The Prince and the Pauper by Mark Twain - 2. Sin was yet very sweet to my flesh, and I was loath to leave it.
— from The Pilgrim's Progress from this world to that which is to come by John Bunyan - “Eh, I'm loath to see the last on her,” she said to Adam, as they turned into the house again.
— from Adam Bede by George Eliot
