Literary notes about Presence (AI summary)
The term "presence" in literature carries a rich multiplicity of meanings, functioning both as a marker of physical proximity and as a symbol for more intangible forces. It is often employed to denote the palpable influence a character exerts on their surroundings, as when a mere person’s being seems to instill life and courage in another [1] or to imbue a scene with quiet solace [2]. At times, it suggests a powerful aura that transcends mere physicality, hinting at divine or transcendent influences that affect characters on a spiritual level [3, 4]. In other contexts, "presence" underscores the importance of being seen or acknowledged, be it in royal courts or intimate encounters, where its absence or dilution can be as significant as its overwhelming manifestation [5, 6]. Finally, it can convey an enigmatic quality, evoking mystery or even dread by its subtle hint of something elusive and shadowy [7].