Literary notes about Pointed (AI summary)
The word "pointed" functions in literature both as a descriptor of physical sharpness and as a vehicle for emphasis or direction. It frequently appears to characterize tangible objects—such as the jagged tip of a javelin in ancient epics [1] or the sharply defined architectural features in Gothic settings [2]—while also conveying the act of drawing attention or indicating significance, as when a character directs someone’s gaze or underscores an observation [3], [4], [5]. Authors even extend its use metaphorically to denote incisiveness in critique or speech [6], revealing a layered versatility that enhances both the imagery and the narrative flow.
- Yet leave for each of us a sword to wield, A pointed javelin, and a fenceful shield.
— from The Odyssey by Homer - It was a pointed arch, lower than the vault, which gradually narrowed, and narrower than the gallery, which closed in as the vault grew lower.
— from Les Misérables by Victor Hugo - "What's this about?" Booger pointed at me.
— from Little Brother by Cory Doctorow - Still, I pointed out one that had the same colour as her eyes.
— from Swann's Way by Marcel Proust - He pointed out to me the important sights on the road, such as Mount Janja (7,489 ft.) to the East.
— from The Declaration of Independence of the United States of America by Thomas Jefferson - spirited, lively, glowing, sparkling, racy, bold, slashing; pungent, piquant, full of point, pointed, pithy, antithetical; sententious.
— from Roget's Thesaurus by Peter Mark Roget