Literary notes about sides (AI summary)
The word "sides" in literature is a remarkably versatile term that authors employ to convey both literal and metaphorical divisions. In many works it designates physical boundaries—whether outlining the overwhelming destruction of an environment as witnessed in the detonations heard on all sides in Jules Verne’s narrative [1] or describing the sloping, rugged edges of geographical features as in the steep sides of a mountain [2]. At the same time, "sides" is used metaphorically to represent opposing factions or perspectives, adding a layer of tension or balance; Smollett’s character notes damage equally inflicted on “both sides” during a humorous exchange [3], while in conflict scenes the phrase underscores opposing forces, as in the divided battle lines of historical epics [4]. Additionally, the term extends to abstract spatial and conceptual enumerations, marking symmetry in crafted objects or even delineating parts of the body—illustrated both in scientific texts and poetic descriptions [5, 6]. Through these varied usages, "sides" not only provides precise spatial orientation but also enriches narrative complexity by symbolizing confrontation, balance, and the fragmentation of unity.
- Detonations and falls were heard on all sides, great overthrows of icebergs, which altered the whole landscape like a diorama.
— from Twenty Thousand Leagues under the Sea by Jules Verne - Easy as it was to mow the wet, soft grass, it was hard work going up and down the steep sides of the ravine.
— from Anna Karenina by graf Leo Tolstoy - ‘Why, the damage is pretty equal on both sides (cried the parson); your head is broke, and my crutch is snapt in the middle.
— from The Expedition of Humphry Clinker by T. Smollett - When the army was ready they rowed briskly against the enemy, and both sides raised a war-shout.
— from Heimskringla; Or, The Chronicle of the Kings of Norway by Snorri Sturluson - The right line, which bisects one of the angles of a triangle, divides the opposite side into two segments proportional to the adjacent sides.
— from The Declaration of Independence of the United States of America by Thomas Jefferson - the back, sides, head, neck and outer part of the legs are of a redish dark brown.
— from The Journals of Lewis and Clark, 1804-1806 by William Clark and Meriwether Lewis
