Literary notes about ascend (AI summary)
The term “ascend” appears in literature to denote both a physical upward movement and a metaphorical progression toward higher states of being. It is used literally to describe climbing mountains, stairs, or other steep paths—as when characters navigate challenging landscapes or architectural confines [1, 2, 3]—and figuratively to imply spiritual elevation or social advancement, as seen when individuals rise to a divine presence or regal station [4, 5]. Moreover, some authors extend its meaning to intellectual or emotional growth, suggesting a climb from concrete experiences to abstract understanding [6]. Through these varied uses, “ascend” becomes a powerful symbol for overcoming obstacles and reaching toward greater heights in body, mind, and spirit [7, 8].
- I passed the bridge of Pélissier, where the ravine, which the river forms, opened before me, and I began to ascend the mountain that overhangs it.
— from Frankenstein; Or, The Modern Prometheus by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley - She heard Tess re-ascend the stairs to the first floor, and the departure of Clare, and the closing of the front door behind him.
— from Tess of the d'Urbervilles: A Pure Woman by Thomas Hardy - He had to ascend it for about a day’s journey—20 miles, according to Capt. Hooper 11 —before he found it shallow enough to ford.
— from The Declaration of Independence of the United States of America by Thomas Jefferson - Descend, that ye may ascend, and ascend to God.
— from The Confessions of St. Augustine by Bishop of Hippo Saint Augustine - In God's name, I'll ascend the regal throne.
— from The Complete Works of William Shakespeare by William Shakespeare - By it the mind should ascend step by step from particular facts and instances to general laws and abstract principles.
— from English Literature by William J. Long - In sheer despair he finally drew the boat toward the most accessible part of the cliff and essayed to ascend.
— from The Luck of Roaring Camp and Other Tales by Bret Harte - Who can tell to what glorious heights man can still ascend?
— from Thus Spake Zarathustra: A Book for All and None by Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche
