Literary notes about bid (AI summary)
In literature, the word "bid" is a versatile term that functions primarily as a command or invitation, often urging a character to act. It appears as a formal request or order, as seen when a character is told to obey an instruction ([1], [2]), and is equally at home conveying farewells or parting words ([3], [4], [5]). At times, it even conveys the act of sending someone to do a task or deliver a message with a tone of urgency or authority ([6], [7], [8]), showcasing the word’s adaptability in setting commands, concluding interactions, or signaling the initiation of action across diverse literary contexts.
- " "Walter," cried Charles Hayter, "why do you not do as you are bid? Do not you hear your aunt speak?
— from Persuasion by Jane Austen - He bid me with speed get rid of my burden; and I told him it was ease that I sought.
— from The Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan Every Child Can Read by John Bunyan - So he kissed all three, and bid them goodbye.
— from Grimms' Fairy Tales by Jacob Grimm and Wilhelm Grimm - To bid good-bye to my dear daughter, of course.
— from Lady Windermere's Fan by Oscar Wilde - "And now I must bid good-bye to your excellent aunt.
— from The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde - Sítá tells Hanumán again to convey her message to Ráma and bid him hasten to rescue her.
— from The Rámáyan of Válmíki, translated into English verse by Valmiki - “Now, Friday,” said I, “do as I bid thee.” Friday said he would.
— from The Life and Adventures of Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe - 6:26,27, Rev. 3:19] This done, he bid them go on their way, and take good heed to the other directions of the shepherds.
— from The Pilgrim's Progress from this world to that which is to come by John Bunyan
