Literary notes about enliven (AI summary)
In literature, “enliven” is employed to denote the act of imbuing a scene, character, or atmosphere with renewed energy and vivacity. Writers use the term to indicate how something weary or monotonous can be transformed by a thoughtful gesture or lively discourse, as when a solitary figure finds solace in revisiting a cherished letter [1] or when a lackluster gathering is brightened by merry conversation [2]. It also appears to animate settings—from dull, leaden natural landscapes to barren social milieus—infusing them with a sense of life and color [3], [4]. In this way, “enliven” functions as a versatile literary device that bridges the gap between the mundane and the effervescent, turning ordinary moments into engaging, spirited experiences [5], [6].
- She sat for a while in the churchyard, and there, to enliven her solitude, re-read that letter of Rivington's.
— from The Swindler and Other Stories by Ethel M. (Ethel May) Dell - I will bid these words dwell ever in my memory, and they shall cheer, comfort, and enliven me!
— from Evelina, Or, the History of a Young Lady's Entrance into the World by Fanny Burney - At seven it is crowded almost to suffocation, and groups of singers with guitars slung across their shoulders enliven the scene.
— from Adventures with the Connaught Rangers, 1809-1814 by William Grattan - The most splendid festivities celebrated their meeting, and the theatres of Paris sent their choicest performers to enliven the evenings.
— from Life of Napoleon Bonaparte, Volume III. by Walter Scott - And this in a double sense, by affording them matter for their conversation, and, at the same time, drink to enliven their spirits.
— from History of Tom Jones, a Foundling by Henry Fielding - And, the more to enliven her, he would sometimes sing a merry song, which bore some relation to matrimony and the loss of a maidenhead.
— from History of Tom Jones, a Foundling by Henry Fielding
