Literary notes about elastic (AI summary)
The use of "elastic" in literature spans both concrete and abstract applications. Authors invoke the term to describe physical properties—such as the resilient walls of arteries that maintain form even when empty ([1]) or the adaptable nature of elastic fluids in scientific expositions ([2])—while simultaneously employing it to convey dynamic movement and the flexible qualities of human spirit. For instance, characters may be depicted with an "elastic step" that suggests buoyancy and energy in their actions ([3], [4]), or the metaphor extends to illustrate an unyielding inner resolve ([5]). This broad deployment of "elastic" enriches descriptions by linking tangible physical flexibility with metaphorical endurance and adaptability.
- In the first place, the larger arteries have thick elastic walls, and maintain their shape even when empty.
— from How it Works by Archibald Williams - Theoretical ideas upon the propagation of a vibratory motion in indefinite elastic media, on an indefinite cylindrical tube.
— from The Declaration of Independence of the United States of America by Thomas Jefferson - But the elastic heart of youth cannot be compressed into one constrained shape long at a time.
— from The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, Complete by Mark Twain - The thrill of his enthusiasm made him walk with an elastic step.
— from The Red Badge of Courage: An Episode of the American Civil War by Stephen Crane - It only proves to my mind, that though slavery is armed with a thousand stings, it is not able entirely to kill the elastic spirit of the bondman.
— from My Bondage and My Freedom by Frederick Douglass
