Literary notes about Proclivity (AI summary)
The term "proclivity" is employed in literature to denote an inherent or habitual tendency, whether in character, nature, or even abstract forces. Writers evoke this notion to reflect not merely a conscious choice but an ingrained or instinctive predisposition, as when a character’s natural inclination shapes their daily routines [1] or even risks their well-being [2]. It is also used to comment on broader human traits, such as a tendency toward conflict or artistic expression [3, 4], and to capture subtler aspects of personality or physical features [5]. This multifaceted use underscores its capacity to add depth to character portrayal and thematic exploration by hinting at forces that are as inevitable as they are defining [6, 7].
- It was not yet day, but the old woman, with that proclivity to early rising characteristic of advancing years, was already astir.
— from The Phantoms of the Foot-Bridge, and Other Stories by Mary Noailles Murfree - His proclivity very nearly cost him dear while yet a youth.
— from Nineteen Centuries of Drink in England: A History by Richard Valpy French - [542] (imperial) stereotyped and intensified for centuries every proclivity to strife inherent in the Italian populations.
— from The Evolution of States by J. M. (John Mackinnon) Robertson - His literary proclivity was evinced in his boyhood, and he wrote verse, we are told, before he was ten.
— from The Luzumiyat of Abu'l-Ala Selected from his Luzum ma la Yalzam and Suct us-Zand by Abu al-Ala al-Maarri - His body was well set, his shoulders compact, and his hair, though short, had a proclivity to curl and kink.
— from Palace and Hovel; Or, Phases of London Life by Daniel Joseph Kirwan - These by proclivity attract evil, and it dwells with them at their invitation.
— from Raymond; or, Life and Death With examples of the evidence for survival of memory and affection after death. by Lodge, Oliver, Sir - It is the animal proclivity to look after one’s own comfort.
— from Foundations of World Unity by `Abdu'l-Bahá
