Literary notes about glee (AI summary)
In literature, the word "glee" is employed to evoke a wide range of joyful and exuberant emotions, often imbued with nuances that shift according to context. It can denote a simple, unbridled delight—as when a character laughs with the spontaneous innocence of a child [1] or when groups revel in collective merriment [2]—yet it also carries a layered quality that may hint at irony or even foreboding amusement, as seen in moments of grim satisfaction [3]. Poets and novelists alike harness it to animate lively narratives or create striking contrasts, whether in the portrayal of musical enthusiasm [4] or in epic scenes where the natural world itself seems to pulse with mirth [5]. Furthermore, "glee" sometimes emerges as a subtle device to underscore personal triumph or mischievous pleasure, enriching character interactions with an extra spark of vibrant emotion [6] [7].
- 'Yes!' cried Mrs Boffin, laughing with the glee of a child.
— from Our Mutual Friend by Charles Dickens - They went from the church with the bridal train, They danced in glee, and they danced full fain; They danced them down to the salt-sea strand,
— from Demonology and Devil-lore by Moncure Daniel Conway - He met his fate at Waterloo with almost “military glee.”
— from The Waterloo Roll Call by Charles Dalton - His family sometimes formed an orchestra, at other times a glee club, and furnished all the necessary parts from its own members.
— from Lineage, Life and Labors of José Rizal, Philippine Patriot by Austin Craig - The waves beside them danced; but they Outdid the sparkling waves in glee; A poet could not but be gay,
— from Language of Flowers by Kate Greenaway - ‘All right,’ replied Newman, in high glee.
— from Nicholas Nickleby by Charles Dickens - But should the play Prove piercing earnest, Should the glee glaze In death's stiff stare, Would not the fun Look too expensive?
— from Poems by Emily Dickinson, Three Series, Complete by Emily Dickinson
