Literary notes about daunting (AI summary)
In literature, "daunting" is used as a versatile descriptor that imbues both tangible settings and abstract challenges with a sense of overwhelming intensity. For instance, it can characterize overwhelming natural landscapes or ominous sounds that seem to possess an almost malevolent presence ([1], [2], [3]), while at the same time capturing the internal battles of characters facing formidable tasks or self-doubt ([4], [5], [6]). Moreover, the term often contrasts external impressions with inner resolve, emphasizing that even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles, there lies a potential spark of courage or, conversely, a hint of lurking menace ([7], [8], [9]). This multifaceted usage lends depth to narratives, heightening the reader’s emotional engagement and anticipation.
- Rose-pink light touched the high peaks and hoar frost sparkled on the pines, but the stern beauty of the wilds was daunting.
— from Northwest! by Harold Bindloss - A biting wind wailed among them, causing the needles to rustle harshly; but except for this there was a daunting silence.
— from The Intriguers by Harold Bindloss - He could see about a quarter of a mile across the open, but the darkness of the wood was impenetrable and its silence daunting.
— from Blake's Burden by Harold Bindloss - Even if McMahon and Oberman managed to develop a successful program to kill off the worm, the NASA SPAN team faced another daunting task.
— from Underground: Hacking, madness and obsession on the electronic frontier by Suelette Dreyfus - He began to feel those daunting self-doubts such as plague the most unselfish and conscientious people.
— from The Pirates of Ersatz by Murray Leinster - For the moment I thought him touched; but no, it was but the sudden daunting conviction that he had met his master.
— from Peggy O'Neal by Alfred Henry Lewis - Still, if her fears were justified, the situation was daunting and she might need all her courage.
— from Johnstone of the Border by Harold Bindloss - He had undertaken a daunting job and was bothered about Jimmy, but in the meantime he owed something to his hosts and he played up.
— from Northwest! by Harold Bindloss - This creeping past invisible dangers was daunting, but he felt comforted as he glanced at the motionless, dark figure at the helm.
— from The Coast of Adventure by Harold Bindloss
