Literary notes about arc (AI summary)
The word "arc" in literature covers a spectrum of meanings that merge literal, technical, and metaphorical nuances. In technical discussions, it often denotes a segment of a circle or the discharge between electrodes, as seen when describing the functioning of arc lamps ([1], [2], [3]) or in geometric measurements and calculations ([4], [5], [6]). At the same time, literary texts use "arc" to evoke vivid imagery and deeper symbolism. For instance, its association with illuminating lights—whether through the flicker of an arc-light or the graceful sweep of a celestial curve ([7], [8], [9])—creates a powerful metaphor for fleeting beauty or sudden insight. Moreover, the historical figure whose name it bears emerges as a potent symbol of transformation and sacrifice, enriching narratives with a heroic legacy that underscores themes of valor and change ([10], [11], [12], [13]).
- In arc lamps fed with direct current the tip of the positive carbon has a bowl-shaped depression worn in it, while the negative tip is pointed.
— from How it Works by Archibald Williams - The introduction of the electric arc lamp and the incandescent glow-lamp seemed at one time to spell the doom of gas as an illuminating agent.
— from How it Works by Archibald Williams - No arc would be formed unless the carbons were first touched to start incandescence.
— from How it Works by Archibald Williams - Differential of the arc of a curve of double curvature.
— from The Declaration of Independence of the United States of America by Thomas Jefferson - Ark , sb. segment of a circle, C2, MD.—OF. arc ; Lat. arcum (acc.), a bow.
— from The Declaration of Independence of the United States of America by Thomas Jefferson - Case where the relation of the arc to its projection can be supposed sensibly equal to unity.
— from The Declaration of Independence of the United States of America by Thomas Jefferson - Arc-lights glared and stammered overhead.
— from Babbitt by Sinclair Lewis - The shed was lit with one big arc light that winked and flickered purple.
— from The Country of the Blind, and Other Stories by H. G. Wells - The arc lights were sputtering overhead, and high up were the lighted windows of the tall office buildings.
— from Sister Carrie: A Novel by Theodore Dreiser - This Henry died the year after Joan of Arc was born.
— from What Is Man? and Other Essays by Mark Twain - The white dove said to have issued from the mouth of Joan of Arc is one of many instances.
— from Demonology and Devil-lore by Moncure Daniel Conway - well, because everyone is going: and besides—I am not Joan of Arc or an Amazon.” “Well, of course, of course!
— from War and Peace by graf Leo Tolstoy - But it is quite certain that a woman can be a Queen Elizabeth, or a Deborah, or a Joan of Arc, since this is not inference, but fact.
— from The Subjection of Women by John Stuart Mill
