The word “real” in literature functions as a versatile marker of authenticity, substance, and concrete existence, often contrasting what is genuine with that which is superficial, imagined, or idealized. For instance, it is used to demarcate a system that is not merely symbolic or abstract but has tangible metaphysical import—as in the discussion of religion where one is “in any real sense” using a term that transcends superficial labels ([1]). Likewise, characters and narratives employ “real” to emphasize the value of tangible experiences and authentic emotions, whether it be the yearning for real things ([2]), the distinctness of real love versus its pretensions ([3], [4]), or real evidence that underpins truth ([5]). In other contexts, “real” helps delineate between appearances and substance, be it in defining true character ([6]), actual influence ([7]), or the genuine fabric of everyday life ([8]). Thus, across a wide range of literary examples, “real” operates as a linguistic tool to call attention to the essence behind mere appearances.