Martin Filler

The magnificent lobby of the Chrysler Building - faced with rare marbles, aglitter with decorative metalwork, and surmounted by a ceiling painted with a totemic image of the tower itself - leads to elevator cabs inlaid with exotic woods in fanciful patterns. The entire route from street to office is invested with ceremony, dignity, and delight.

American Critic

Thomas Frank

Vibrancy is so universally desirable, so totemic in its powers, that even though we aren't sure what the word means, we know the quality it designates must be cultivated. The vibrant, we believe, is what makes certain cities flourish.

American Author

Melvyn Bragg

Magna Carta has become totemic. It is in the comedy of Tony Hancock, in the poetry of Kipling, never far from the front pages in a constitutional crisis.

English Journalist

Understand 'totemic' as a key part of cultural identity that a group takes pride in.

Cultural Significance

'Totemic' may refer to any symbol, not just animals, that unites a group.

Not Just Animals

Often found in historical or anthropological contexts to describe ancient traditions.

Historical Context

'Totemic' signifies something exemplary and defining within a broader category.

Symbol of Category

Something 'totemic' in this sense stands as a hallmark or epitome of its kind.

Representative Importance

Use 'totemic' to convey a sense of deep importance and influence within a realm.

Conveys Significance

 often the case if you're trying to save a charismatic totemic kind of animal like the bear this amazing life-form middle of desert as you save it you end