Literary notes about sable (AI summary)
In literature, "sable" functions both as a technical heraldic term and as a rich, evocative descriptor for darkness. In the realm of heraldry, it precisely denotes a black field on a shield or in a crest—as seen in detailed armorial descriptions ([1], [2], [3])—where its use creates a vivid, formal image of lineage and tradition. Beyond its heraldic precision, "sable" is employed poetically to evoke moods of gloom, mystery, or melancholy; authors use it to describe not only dark skies and ominous clouds ([4], [5], [6]) but also to lend a somber elegance to figures and settings, from the subtle touch of a pencil ([7]) to the brooding scowls of characters ([8]). This dual usage enhances literary expression by bridging technical description with layered symbolism.
- Consequently the arms of Long are blazoned: "Sable, semé of cross crosslets, a lion rampant argent."
— from A Complete Guide to Heraldry by Arthur Charles Fox-Davies - [28] Arms of Boston: Sable, three coronets composed of crosses patté and fleurs-de-lis in pale or.
— from A Complete Guide to Heraldry by Arthur Charles Fox-Davies - ‘Arms: Azure, three caltrops in chief over a fess sable.
— from The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle - To the north-eastward, the glare of snow lay under the starlight of the sable sky, and I could see an undulating crest of hillocks pinkish white.
— from The Time Machine by H. G. Wells - It is, as when A sable cloud Turns forth her silver lining on the night.
— from The Works of Charles and Mary Lamb — Volume 2 by Charles Lamb and Mary Lamb - While the long night extends her sable reign, Around Patroclus mourn'd the Grecian train.
— from The Iliad by Homer - The sketch was nearly finished, and she had only to put in some critical little touches with the most delicate of her sable pencils.
— from Lady Audley's Secret by M. E. Braddon - Grace Stepney rose up before her in sable wrath.
— from The House of Mirth by Edith Wharton
