Literary notes about raucous (AI summary)
Writers employ “raucous” to convey a sense of unbridled, harsh sound that can mirror both the physical environment and the inner state of characters. It is often used to depict voices or noises that burst forth with raw intensity, whether it’s the dramatic, banjo-accompanied shout in a critical moment [1] or the wild, almost animalistic cry echoing under the stars [2]. The term also appears to intensify both human and mechanized sounds—from the deep, thrilling exclamation of a believer [3] to the unmistakable, foreboding caw of a crow signaling impending calamity [4]—and even extends to musical contexts where instruments clash in loud, abrasive harmony [5]. This versatility underscores “raucous” as a powerful descriptor that enriches the vivid auditory landscapes of literature.
- At that dramatic moment, to substantiate his statement, the raucous voice, accompanied by resounding chords strummed on a banjo, sounded again.
— from T. Haviland Hicks Senior by J. Raymond Elderdice - She was free as a leopard that sends up its raucous cry in the night.
— from The Rainbow by D. H. Lawrence - His deep raucous voice had thrilled them as it uttered the word of belief and submission.
— from Dubliners by James Joyce - Should a crow come near the house, and caw in its usual rapid raucous tones, it means that calamity is impending.
— from Omens and Superstitions of Southern India by Edgar Thurston - The big drum boomed, And the raucous brass horns mingled with the cymbals, The silver triangle and the singing voices.
— from Toward the Gulf by Edgar Lee Masters
