Literary notes about virile (AI summary)
In literature, “virile” frequently conveys not only physical strength but also an encompassing sense of assertive, life-affirming energy. It is often used to suggest a noble, creative force—one that leaves a tangible mark on the world ([1])—or to evoke images of mythic potency, as when it is linked to symbols of power and deity-like figures ([2], [3]). At times the term underscores the moral or intellectual vigor of characters, whether through a robust, commanding voice ([4], [5]) or through the embodiment of national strength ([6], [7]). The word can play a dual role, simultaneously celebrating masculinity—sometimes with a humorous twist ([8], [9])—and signaling the piercing, aggressive clarity found in both physical and metaphorical expressions of power. Its varied applications enrich characters and settings alike, marking everything from personal competence ([10]) to the audacity of creative style ([11], [12]).
- Far more virile and noble is the sense of having actually done something, and left at least the temporary stamp of one's special will on the world.
— from The Life of Reason: The Phases of Human Progress by George Santayana - He bears the strung-bow and arrows, emblems of virile power, borne afterwards by the sun-god Apollo, and the western son of Venus.
— from Ancient Pagan and Modern Christian Symbolism by Thomas Inman and M.R.C.S.E. John Newton - The former, or round perpendicular stone, the type of the virile organ, is the linga .
— from Ancient Pagan and Modern Christian Symbolism by Thomas Inman and M.R.C.S.E. John Newton - Presently the unheeded knock was repeated, and then a quick, virile voice called out: "Hola, within there!
— from The Bright Face of Danger Being an Account of Some Adventures of Henri de Launay, Son of the Sieur de la Tournoire by Robert Neilson Stephens - "Mother," he said—and he stood up, suddenly robust, virile, alert—"mother, let's go home."
— from Half Portions by Edna Ferber - A martial nation has always enjoyed virile strength.
— from The Kingdom of God is Within You / Christianity and Patriotism / Miscellanies by Tolstoy, Leo, graf - Underlying the spirit of unrest was the fact of an aged dying empire faced by a young and virile country.
— from Shout Treason: The Trial of Aaron Burr by Francis F. Beirne - I cannot but extol the virile potency of the old bucko that could still knock another child out of her.
— from Ulysses by James Joyce - My virile food taketh effect, my strong and savoury sayings: and verily, I did not nourish them with flatulent vegetables!
— from Thus Spake Zarathustra: A Book for All and None by Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche - His cousin admired the young fellow's virile competency.
— from The Vision Splendid by William MacLeod Raine - Enjolras was the more virile, Combeferre the more humane.
— from Les Misérables by Victor Hugo - The translator has caught the spirit of the work, and Rosegger's virile style loses nothing in the translation.
— from Dwellers in the Hills by Melville Davisson Post
