Literary notes about witless (AI summary)
In literature, the term "witless" is frequently employed to denote a lack of intelligence or common sense, often serving both as a pointed insult and a marker of vulnerability. Some authors use it in a biting, humorous manner—as when someone is portrayed as as foolish or senseless as their appearance might suggest ([1], [2])—while others deploy the term to add irony or to underscore a character’s unawareness in grave situations ([3], [4]). In certain narratives, "witless" emphasizes not only ignorance but also a tragic incapacity to see the perils surrounding them ([5], [6]), thereby reflecting both societal critique and the complexity of human folly. Overall, the word helps creators paint vivid character portraits that oscillate between comedy and pathos.
- This man was old enough to be your father, but he looked just as witless as you did."
— from Wells Brothers: The Young Cattle Kings by Andy Adams - But he was a witless young man, “short, thin, and sallow, so inactive that he seldom spoke, and always looked as if he was about to fall asleep.”
— from The Byzantine Empire Third Edition by Charles Oman - " "But do let her go, Jacky," coaxed his poor witless wife.
— from Tess of the d'Urbervilles: A Pure Woman by Thomas Hardy - It had still scared me witless and left me paranoid and checking my shoulder for weeks.
— from Little Brother by Cory Doctorow - Witless shellfish swam in the gross lenses to and fro, seeking outlet.
— from Ulysses by James Joyce - Without doubt your kin have already taught you to call me thrall-bred and witless.
— from The Ward of King Canute: A Romance of the Danish Conquest by Ottilie A. (Ottilia Adelina) Liljencrantz
