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Literary notes about sob (AI summary)

The word “sob” carries a weight of visceral emotion in literature, often marking the precise moment when inner turmoil finds a physical voice. Authors use it both as a noun and a verb to capture not just the act of crying, but also the depth of despair, vulnerability, or even relief experienced by characters. In some works, a character’s quiet, controlled sob reveals an internal battle that hints at a greater sorrow beneath the surface [1], [2]. At other times, an outburst—a raw, unrestrained sob—foregrounds the intensity of personal grief or despair, reflecting pivotal moments of emotional catharsis [3], [4]. There are instances where the sound of a sob is tied with physical reactions, underscoring the profound effect of loss or regret on the character’s state of being [5], [6]. In this way, the simple utterance “sob” becomes a multifaceted literary tool, resonating with readers as a symbol of the human capacity for both heartache and healing.
  1. “Yes, most precious... a royal word,” said Count Rostóv, with a sob.
    — from War and Peace by graf Leo Tolstoy
  2. ‘Why dost thou sob?’ said the grandfather, pressing her closer to him and glancing towards me.
    — from The Old Curiosity Shop by Charles Dickens
  3. With a sob he laid his head on my shoulder and cried like a wearied child, whilst he shook with emotion.
    — from Dracula by Bram Stoker
  4. For good, too; though, in consequence of my previous emotions, I was still occasionally seized with a stormy sob.
    — from David Copperfield by Charles Dickens
  5. " She struggled with the sob in her throat.
    — from Tess of the d'Urbervilles: A Pure Woman by Thomas Hardy
  6. So she would lie and sob out her grief upon his shoulder, while he gazed at her, as helpless as a wounded animal, the target of unseen enemies.
    — from The Jungle by Upton Sinclair

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