Literary notes about buddy (AI summary)
In literature, the word buddy can serve a variety of functions—from a casual term of endearment among friends to a marker of closeness and familiarity. It often appears as a straightforward address in dialogue, as when a character affectionately or informally speaks to another (“But, Reddy Bat, tell me what fun is there in the Country?” [1] or “That’ll be fun, won't it, Buddy-boy?” [2]), while at other times it functions as a proper name or nickname that signifies both intimacy and an unspoken bond (as seen when characters introduce themselves, “My name's Loring, and this is my space buddy, Al Mason” [3]). Additionally, buddy is employed to underscore camaraderie in even tense moments, such as when used to either diffuse conflict or emphasize mutual responsibility (“What's the matter, buddy?” [4] and “Hey, listen, buddy, why do you want to see the lieutenant?” [5]). This versatile usage highlights how the term adapts to different narrative contexts, reinforcing relationships and shaping character interactions throughout literary works.
- "But, Reddy Bat," said Buddy Jim, "tell me what fun is there in the Country?"
— from Buddy Jim by Elizabeth Gordon - That'll be fun, won't it, Buddy-boy?” “Yes, Uncle Peter,” said the child cheerfully, and they began the long, cold walk to town.
— from The Jack-Knife Man by Ellis Parker Butler - "My name's Loring, and this is my space buddy, Al Mason.
— from Danger in Deep Space by Carey Rockwell - Then the cop bellowed into Malone's ear: "What's the matter, buddy?"
— from The Impossibles by Randall Garrett - He added: "Hey, listen, buddy, why do you want to see the lieutenant?
— from Out Like a Light by Randall Garrett