"Flesh" in literature functions on multiple levels, oscillating between its literal meaning—referring to bodily tissue or physical substance—and a broader, more metaphorical symbolism. It is used to evoke vivid, often visceral imagery, as when the burning quality of a soldier's flesh in combat is depicted ([1]) or the brutal reality of incisions and dismemberment is conveyed ([2]). At the same time, "flesh" encapsulates deeper spiritual and existential dichotomies: it contrasts the mortal, carnal nature of humanity with the enduring spirit, as seen in texts that urge living according to the spirit rather than the flesh ([3], [4]). The word also operates within social, political, and ethical contexts, symbolizing kinship and belonging ([5], [6]), as well as serving as a metaphor for the corrupt or consumable nature of the physical world ([7], [8]). Thus, across diverse genres and epochs, "flesh" remains a potent and multifaceted term, rich in imagery and meaning.
- His flesh seemed strangely on fire, and the sounds of the battle continued in his ears.
— from The Red Badge of Courage: An Episode of the American Civil War by Stephen Crane
- They made several incisions in his flesh.
— from Fox's Book of Martyrs by John Foxe
- Romans Chapter 8 There is no condemnation to them that, being justified by Christ, walk not according to the flesh, but according to the spirit.
— from The Bible, Douay-Rheims, Complete
- The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.
— from The Bible, Douay-Rheims, Complete
- “Most pious and holy elder,” he cried, pointing to Ivan, “that is my son, flesh of my flesh, the dearest of my flesh!
— from The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoyevsky
- I'll be sworn, if thou be Launcelot, thou art mine own flesh and blood.
— from The Complete Works of William Shakespeare by William Shakespeare
- Like Shylock's pound of flesh, it leads to no consequences.
— from The Will to Believe, and Other Essays in Popular Philosophy by William James
- Twas downright madness to show six feet of flesh and blood, on a naked rock, to the raging savages.
— from The Last of the Mohicans; A narrative of 1757 by James Fenimore Cooper