Literary notes about glance (AI summary)
In literature, “glance” functions as a concise means to reveal a character’s inner life or to foreshadow unfolding events with a single, charged look. Writers employ it to capture fleeting emotions—whether it is the silent scrutiny of a troubled soul ([1]), a dismissive or scornful look that exposes hidden disdain ([2], [3]), or a tender, understanding view that speaks volumes ([4]). At times it signals a character’s abrupt shift in mood or intention, as when a swift glance carries subtle warning or unspoken communication ([5], [6]). In essence, the word “glance” encapsulates the power of a momentary observation to illuminate deeper truths about the human condition.
- Raskolnikov was silent, keeping his eyes fixed on Sonia, except for an occasional rapid glance at Luzhin.
— from Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoyevsky - For the first time since our arrival he lifted his eyes on me; but in his glance there was a certain disquietude which evinced an inward struggle.
— from A Hero of Our Time by Mikhail Iurevich Lermontov - He had the glance of a pole-cat and the bearing of a man of letters.
— from Les Misérables by Victor Hugo - She threw me a glance full of love and gratitude.
— from A Hero of Our Time by Mikhail Iurevich Lermontov - I had never done more than glance at the house, as I went by with a quickened step.
— from David Copperfield by Charles Dickens - Then his swift roving glance went round again; he made a swift movement—and vanished.
— from The island of Doctor Moreau by H. G. Wells
