General Connotations:
* Old-fashioned and traditional: Awls are often associated with craftsmanship of the past, like cobblers and leatherworking.
* Hard work and manual labor: Using an awl requires skill and effort, suggesting a dedication to craftsmanship.
* Simple and practical: An awl is a basic tool, implying a focus on functionality over complexity.
More Specific Connotations:
* Repair and restoration: Awls are used for mending and fixing things, potentially suggesting a sense of care and attention to detail.
* Precision and detail: Awls require precise movements, implying accuracy and meticulousness.
* Austerity and resourcefulness: Because awls are simple tools, they might be seen as a symbol of making do with what you have.
Literary Connotations:
In literature, awls can be used as a symbol of:
* The power of small things: A seemingly insignificant tool can be used to create something beautiful or functional.
* The passage of time: Awls are often associated with older crafts, implying a sense of history and tradition.
* The struggle for survival: Using an awl for essential tasks can suggest a difficult or challenging life.
Overall, the connotative meaning of "awl" is often tied to ideas of craftsmanship, tradition, hard work, and resilience. The specific connotations can vary depending on the context in which the word is used.