Literary notes about city (AI summary)
In literature, the term “city” functions as much more than a mere geographical reference; it evokes a rich spectrum of meanings that span the physical, symbolic, and social realms. Authors like Mark Twain imbue the city with both sacred allure and the mundane reality of change—illustrated by a “sacred city” that promises adventure yet eludes fulfillment [1] and a city that seems unchanged to the eye, hinting at a static, almost mythical presence [2]. Ancient texts such as Homer’s epic also use the city as a battleground and emblem of collective identity, as when the prospect of sacking Troy underscores its central role in the unfolding drama of human affairs [3]. In other examples, cities serve as bustling centers of modern life, whether portrayed as iconic urban hubs like New York City [4] or discussed in the context of political and social organization [5, 6]. Thus, across genres and eras, the "city" emerges as a versatile symbol—simultaneously a stage for historical events, a microcosm of society, and a repository of shared cultural meaning.