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Literary notes about patter (AI summary)

In literature, the word "patter" evokes a rhythmic, light sound that often carries multiple layers of meaning. It is frequently used to describe the steady tapping of rain against surfaces—thereby setting a tranquil, almost musical background [1, 2]—or the quick, soft steps of characters moving through various spaces, adding a vivid sense of motion and immediacy to scenes [3, 4]. At times, "patter" also characterizes rapid-fire speech or casual banter, highlighting the lively, sometimes mischievous cadence of dialogue [5, 6]. Its repeated use, as seen in passages that mimic the natural or human heartbeat, contributes to building atmosphere and rhythm within the narrative [7, 8].
  1. The sharp patter of the rain on leaves had ceased, and from just ahead there came back to us the stealthy padding of feet in wet soil.
    — from The Man in Lower Ten by Mary Roberts Rinehart
  2. The only sound is the patter of rain dropping like fine shot on the young rye and the parched road.
    — from Project Gutenberg Compilation of Short Stories by Chekhov by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov
  3. The Seventeen Little Bears tiptoed very softly out of bed, and "pitter-patter, pitter-patter" went their little feet down the stairs.
    — from Snubby Nose and Tippy Toes by Laura Rountree Smith
  4. I could hear the rapid patter of their feet, and Montgomery's voice soothing them.
    — from The island of Doctor Moreau by H. G. Wells
  5. Monkwords, marybeads jabber on their girdles: roguewords, tough nuggets patter in their pockets.
    — from Ulysses by James Joyce
  6. “But you don't believe all this Socialist patter you talk.”
    — from This Side of Paradise by F. Scott Fitzgerald
  7. The pelting of the rain softened to a leafy patter, the patter to a drip, and a watery moon came glimmering through the clouds.
    — from Heralds of EmpireBeing the Story of One Ramsay Stanhope, Lieutenant to Pierre Radisson in the Northern Fur Trade by Agnes C. Laut
  8. "Don't interfere with our friendly patter," cried out his thief neighbor, who for this exclamation was thrown into the dungeon.
    — from The History of a Crime by Victor Hugo

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