Literary notes about Once (AI summary)
The word "once" operates in literature as a flexible temporal marker that can denote a specific moment in the past, an immediate reaction, or even an event of unique significance. In historical narratives or scholarly texts, it anchors events firmly in the past—as seen in [1] where a line is interrupted by an usurper, or [2] which recalls an ancient dispute over temple dedication. In more dramatic or narrative contexts, "once" adds a sense of immediacy or suddenness, such as in [3] where the character's feelings shift all at once, or [4] where magical action is triggered instantly. Meanwhile, authors use "once" to emphasize the singularity or rarity of an occurrence, as reflected in [5] where a desperate plea underscores its unique chance. Whether setting a historical scene, marking a turning point in the narrative, or highlighting a moment of urgent action, "once" enriches the text by succinctly linking past events and instantaneous change ([6], [7], [8]).
- This line was once interrupted by an usurper between the fourth and fifth reigns.
— from Travels in the Central Parts of Indo-China (Siam), Cambodia, and Laos (Vol. 1 of 2) by Henri Mouhot - Eleven cities of Asia had once disputed the honor of dedicating a temple of Tiberius, and their respective merits were examined by the senate.
— from The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire by Edward Gibbon - At once I exulted and feared; for now, for good or ill, the end was near.
— from Dracula by Bram Stoker - "It shall be done," said the King, and at once the Winged Monkeys caught the four travelers and Toto up in their arms and flew away with them.
— from The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum - But Sue kept asking piteously: "Can't I see them once more—just once!
— from Jude the Obscure by Thomas Hardy - This law, once granted, must be carried far beyond Hartley's point.
— from The Principles of Psychology, Volume 1 (of 2) by William James - With it came Merlin, and took a front seat on the platform; he was as good as his word for once.
— from A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court by Mark Twain - I came across a man in Belgium once, a very famous detective, and he quite inflamed me.
— from The Mysterious Affair at Styles by Agatha Christie
