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Literary notes about affliction (AI summary)

The word affliction in literature frequently communicates a deep, multifaceted experience of suffering that transcends mere physical pain. It is often used to denote the trials that test human resilience and faith, as seen in biblical passages where affliction serves as a divine means of purification and humility [1, 2, 3]. In more poetic and philosophical works, the term captures the internal tumult of characters, symbolizing both hidden torment and the transformative power of hardship, as evidenced by reflections on personal despair and growth [4, 5, 6]. Across various genres—from ancient epics to modern novels—affliction emerges as a poignant element that not only signifies misery and isolation but also hints at the possibility of redemption and the eventual arrival of comfort or relief [7, 8, 9]. This layered use of affliction underscores its enduring capacity to evoke empathy, challenge the human spirit, and illustrate the interplay between suffering and the quest for solace and moral fortitude [10, 11].
  1. The furnace trieth the potter's vessels, and the trial of affliction just men. 27:7.
    — from The Bible, Douay-Rheims, Complete
  2. For the cry of the children of Israel is come unto me: and I have seen their affliction, wherewith they are oppressed by the Egyptians.
    — from The Bible, Douay-Rheims, Complete
  3. The blessing of the Lord maketh men rich: neither shall affliction be joined to them.
    — from The Bible, Douay-Rheims, Complete
  4. But whom would that disguised affliction convince!
    — from Thus Spake Zarathustra: A Book for All and None by Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche
  5. Before I knew what affliction meant, I was ready sometimes to wish for it.
    — from Narrative of the Captivity and Restoration of Mrs. Mary Rowlandson by Mary White Rowlandson
  6. , and from the dust of a great affliction rose the sustaining power she had sought so long.
    — from Work: A Story of Experience by Louisa May Alcott
  7. Who knows the son of sorrow to relieve, Cheers the sad heart, nor lets affliction grieve.
    — from The Odyssey by Homer
  8. Down stage he strode some paces, grave, tall in affliction, his long arms outheld.
    — from Ulysses by James Joyce
  9. That through the utmost depths of poverty and affliction she had toiled, never
    — from Nicholas Nickleby by Charles Dickens
  10. Out of thy poisons brewedst thou balsam for thyself; thy cow, affliction, milkedst thou—now drinketh thou the sweet milk of her udder.
    — from Thus Spake Zarathustra: A Book for All and None by Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche
  11. " "I never cry unless for some great affliction.
    — from Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

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