Literary notes about relax (AI summary)
In literature, "relax" proves to be a remarkably versatile term, employed in both literal and metaphorical senses. It often describes the physical easing of tension—whether it is the softening of muscles after prolonged activity ([1], [2]), or the gentle release from a tight grip in moments of distress ([3], [4]). At the same time, it functions as a metaphor for reducing rigidity in thought, discipline, or emotional resolve, as when strict vigilance or determination is momentarily relinquished ([5], [6]). This flexibility in usage not only enriches character portrayals and narrative moods but also reflects the deeper human need to occasionally let go, be it physically or mentally ([7], [8]).
- and stood up, stretching her arms, and feeling the need to relax her muscles after having been so long seated.
— from The Awakening, and Selected Short Stories by Kate Chopin - Do not force your head around—simply relax your neck and let gravity pull it around as your body moves.
— from The Art of Public Speaking by Dale Carnegie and J. Berg Esenwein - Unaccustomed to sudden emergencies, her head began to swim, and her grip upon the bridle to relax.
— from A Study in Scarlet by Arthur Conan Doyle - to relax one’s grip,—what a terrible thing!
— from Les Misérables by Victor Hugo - All the army, officers and men, seemed to relax more or less, and sink into a condition of idleness.
— from Memoirs of General William T. Sherman — Complete by William T. Sherman - This, however, should not relax our energies in the least, but should stimulate us to greater activity.
— from Memoirs of General William T. Sherman — Complete by William T. Sherman - “I want you to take a red-hot bath as hot as you can bear it, and just relax your nerves.
— from This Side of Paradise by F. Scott Fitzgerald - Gradually the tension in him began to relax.
— from The Rainbow by D. H. Lawrence
