Literary notes about contexture (AI summary)
In literature, the term "contexture" is employed to evoke the intricate internal make-up or framework of both tangible and abstract entities. It describes physical textures and structures, as seen in depictions of natural forms like an islet’s shape [1] or the porous grain of Jamaican cedar [2], while also serving as a metaphor for more complex conceptual arrangements—such as the underlying construction of a narrative or the solid framework of human experiences and faith [3, 4]. Authors use "contexture" to draw attention to the detailed, often artfully woven constitution of things, whether referring to the literal fabric of materials or the metaphorical structure that holds together broader ideas and events [5, 6].
- This islet, of curious contexture, resembles as near as possible a cup turned upside down, from which a fuliginous vapor arises.
— from Facing the Flag by Jules Verne - The cedars we have from Jamaica, are a spurious sort and of so porous a contexture, that wine will sink into it:
— from Sylva; Or, A Discourse of Forest Trees. Vol. 1 (of 2) by John Evelyn - If we give credence, as we ought to, to that word, it will purify us , and it will test of what contexture our faith is.
— from Expositions of Holy Scripture: Psalms by Alexander Maclaren - Let us then look with ever fresh wonder on this marvellous contexture of human life, and on Him that moulds it all to His own perfect purposes.
— from Expositions of Holy Scripture: St. Mark by Alexander Maclaren - By Fable, he says (§ 2), 'I mean the contexture of incidents, or the Plot.
— from The United States Bill of Rights
The Ten Original Amendments to the Constitution of the United States by United States - Excessive grants, followed by violent and arbitrary resumptions, tore to pieces the whole contexture of the government.
— from The Works of the Right Honourable Edmund Burke, Vol. 07 (of 12) by Edmund Burke