Literary notes about hemp (AI summary)
In a few literary passages the word “hemp” transcends its role as merely a plant or fiber and becomes a subtle color image, evoking an earthy, natural tone. For example, one writer compares a character’s hair to “hemp” [1], suggesting a muted, sun-worn hue that carries both rusticity and resilience. In another instance, the phrase “hemp passeth green holly” [2] uses hemp as a benchmark against the vivid green of holly, implying that its tone is understated yet distinct—a quiet, natural quality that enriches the landscape of description. These rare color uses of “hemp” invite readers to envision a hue that is as much about texture and nature as it is about shade.
- God’s life, I was ne’er so thrummed since I was a gentleman: my coxcomb was dry beaten, as if my hair had been hemp.
— from Thomas Dekker Edited, with an introduction and notes by Ernest Rhys. Unexpurgated Edition by Thomas Dekker - Be warned yong wantons, hemp passeth green holly.
— from Curiosities of Street Literature
