Literary notes about riveting (AI summary)
The word "riveting" in literature oscillates between a literal technical term and a metaphor for captivation. In technical discourse, it appears in precise instructions for fastening metal parts—illustrating processes in construction and machinery where metal is bound together securely ([1], [2], [3]). At the same time, novelists and essayists invoke "riveting" to evoke an intense, unyielding focus, whether depicting a character’s transfixed gaze or the compelling allure of a moment that demands complete attention ([4], [5], [6]). This dual usage layers the term with both tangible craftsmanship and an abstract, emotional pull that mirrors the steadiness and strength of a well-forged union.
- On the end of the top bar forge a pin about 3 ⁄ 16 in. in diameter to fasten into the back by riveting.
— from The Library of Work and Play: Working in Metals by Charles Conrad Sleffel - This is done while the rivet is still hot, either by hammering or by the application of a riveting machine, operated by steam or hydraulic pressure.
— from The American Railway: Its Construction, Development, Management, and Appliances by Thomas Curtis Clarke - He had spent several months supervising the construction of the steamer itself in the yards, especially the riveting of its metal plates.
— from Atlantis by Gerhart Hauptmann - He did not admire Oliver—he even despised him—but when all was said, the boy had succeeded in riveting his attention.
— from Virginia by Ellen Anderson Gholson Glasgow - [477] Whitefield's power of riveting the attention of his auditors was marvellous.
— from The Life of the Rev. George Whitefield, Volume 1 (of 2) by L. (Luke) Tyerman - There was a drawing, too, of attention, a riveting of feeling, heretofore wandering.
— from Sister Carrie: A Novel by Theodore Dreiser
