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Literary notes about despite (AI summary)

In literature, "despite" functions as a vital pivot that juxtaposes contrasting qualities or circumstances, highlighting that one condition persists in the face of another seemingly opposing force. Authors use it to acknowledge limitations, set up unexpected outcomes, or emphasize irony without negating the primary assertion. For instance, in one passage a man's proclaimed "faith" is undermined by his baser instincts [1], while in another, a princess's excitement is tempered by the necessity of decorum [2]. The word often introduces a counterpoint that enriches the narrative by admitting complicating factors—whether signaling a character’s inner conflict [3] or underscoring the persistence of an effect despite inhibiting conditions [4].
  1. Closely examined, it appears that, despite all his “faith,” he has been ruled only by his instincts—and what instincts !—
    — from The Antichrist by Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche
  2. Despite her excitement, Princess Mary realized that this was the countess and that it was necessary to say something to her.
    — from War and Peace by graf Leo Tolstoy
  3. Love tormented him and overrode his will, so that, despite all determination, he found himself at the little ink-stained table.
    — from Martin Eden by Jack London
  4. But lest the breast be purged, what conflicts then, What perils, must bosom, in our own despite!
    — from On the Nature of Things by Titus Lucretius Carus

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