Literary notes about Swerve (AI summary)
The word "swerve" is employed in literature to convey both literal and metaphorical shifts, capturing sudden deviations in movement as well as departures from a steadfast path. In some narratives, it describes a physical change in direction—a ship's abrupt turn at sea or a carriage’s unexpected movement on a winding road ([1], [2])—evoking a sense of tension and urgency. At the same time, authors use "swerve" to represent metaphorical divergence from duty or truth, as characters resolve not to stray even in the face of adversity or temptation ([3], [4]). This dual usage enriches the text by highlighting the dramatic consequences of altering one's course, whether in action or in principle ([5], [6]).
- The instant the bow of the enemy began to swerve to port, the captain of the Bellevite gave the order to put the helm to starboard.
— from A Victorious Union by Oliver Optic - He was far more curious, in every swerve of the carriage, and every cry of the postilions, than he had been since he quitted London.
— from Little Dorrit by Charles Dickens - I will not so much as mention their names, melancholy alone is the subject of my present discourse, from which I will not swerve.
— from The Declaration of Independence of the United States of America by Thomas Jefferson - Though he has known the sweets of power, And poured his gifts in liberal shower, From duty's path he will not swerve, [pg 134]
— from The Rámáyan of Válmíki, translated into English verse by Valmiki - Neither evil interests nor reckless demagogues can swerve us from our purpose; for we are free from both and fear neither.
— from The Art of Public Speaking by Dale Carnegie and J. Berg Esenwein - You must win it—don't swerve for an instant, but keep that resolution if it kills you.
— from The Art of Public Speaking by Dale Carnegie and J. Berg Esenwein
