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Literary notes about sarcasm (AI summary)

Throughout literature, "sarcasm" has been employed as a multifaceted stylistic device, ranging from a subtle undercurrent in dialogue to a sharp instrument of social critique. In some works, it appears as a delicate, almost unintentional mark—a “faint touch” that hints at underlying tensions, as seen in Edith Wharton's depiction [1, 2, 3]. In contrast, authors like Mark Twain and Charles Dickens use sarcasm more pointedly, allowing the tone—sometimes described as “biting” or “angry” [4, 5, 6]—to expose hypocrisy or personal indignation. Moreover, in literary pieces like Yogananda's narrative [7] or Dante’s memorable lines [8], sarcasm takes on an almost tangible quality, serving both as an emotional outlet and a reflective societal mirror. This versatile use underscores sarcasm's enduring role as both a humorous quip and a critical commentary on the human condition.
  1. Was SHE at the ball too?" There was a faint touch of sarcasm in the reference to her son, and Archer knew it and had expected it.
    — from The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton
  2. ," he added with a flash of sarcasm.
    — from The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton
  3. "I'm not going till later on: luckily for the convenience of your family," he continued, taking base refuge in sarcasm.
    — from The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton
  4. After an unconscious sarcasm like that, further comment is unnecessary.”
    — from The Gilded Age: A Tale of Today by Mark Twain and Charles Dudley Warner
  5. 'Why put it so?' demanded Mrs Wilfer, with biting sarcasm.
    — from Our Mutual Friend by Charles Dickens
  6. asked Laura, moving her foot a little, and speaking with a shade of sarcasm.
    — from The Gilded Age: A Tale of Today by Mark Twain and Charles Dudley Warner
  7. Waves of laughter, scyllas of sarcasm, melancholic whirlpools, Melting in the vast sea of bliss.
    — from Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda
  8. [750] To all eternity : This may seem a stroke of sarcasm, but is not.
    — from The Divine Comedy of Dante Alighieri: The Inferno by Dante Alighieri

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