Literary notes about Precursor (AI summary)
The word "precursor" in literature is employed to signify an antecedent that heralds or prefigures significant events, characters, or innovations. It often portrays a formative moment or character that sets the stage for what follows, whether it be in the natural world or in human affairs. For instance, a looming cloud might be depicted as the precursor to a storm, implying imminent change ([1]), while an early figure may be portrayed as a precursor to a later luminary, suggesting a foundational influence in cultural or intellectual history ([2]). Sometimes, the term is used in a more tangible manner, describing something that literally comes before and prepares the way for what is to emerge ([3], [4]). Overall, its usage enriches a narrative by linking past conditions or actions with future developments.