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Literary notes about cot (AI summary)

The term "cot" in literature is versatile, functioning both as a literal sleeping platform and as a vivid symbol of refuge, intimacy, or transience. In many epic retellings, such as the translated verses of the Rámáyan, the cot becomes a stage for moments of rest and sorrow, reflecting the hero’s inner state and the fragility of existence ([1], [2], [3]). In contrast, in works by Dickens and Kipling the cot symbolizes the humble origins or modest settings of a life in progress ([4], [5]), while its usage in colloquial and even punning contexts—as when a character exclaims “Cot help me!”—underscores its role in everyday speech and rustic humor ([6], [7]). This breadth of usage, echoing from lyrical portrayals to gritty realism, demonstrates how a simple object can be imbued with layers of meaning in literature.
  1. “Go, Ráma go,” the sage replied: Then from the cot the chieftain hied.
    — from The Rámáyan of Válmíki, translated into English verse by Valmiki
  2. And then to Ráma proudly showed The cot prepared for his abode.
    — from The Rámáyan of Válmíki, translated into English verse by Valmiki
  3. As Ráma sought his leafy cot Through his left eye keen throbbings shot, His wonted strength his frame forsook, And all his body reeled and shook.
    — from The Rámáyan of Válmíki, translated into English verse by Valmiki
  4. That was the cot of my infancy; an old egg-box.
    — from Hard Times by Charles Dickens
  5. She beckoned Kim to her hut, and stooped above a battered English cash-box under her cot.
    — from Kim by Rudyard Kipling
  6. “As Cot is my judge,” cried Morgan, “and my salfation, and my witness; whosoever has pilfered my provisions is a lousy, peggarly, rascally knave!
    — from The Adventures of Roderick Random by T. Smollett
  7. “As for a sheltenman in distress,” said he, shaking me by the hand, “I lofe him as I lofe my own powels: for, Cot help me!
    — from The Adventures of Roderick Random by T. Smollett

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