Final answer:
The word "elixir" in the context of "The Story of an Hour" refers to a substance that prolongs life, used metaphorically to depict the character's sense of renewal while breathing fresh air.
Step-by-step explanation:
The word "elixir" in the sentence from "The Story of an Hour" by Kate Chopin, "no; she was drinking in a very elixir of life through that open window", implies a substance that prolongs life (a). In the context of the sentence, it is used metaphorically to describe the feeling of rejuvenation and vitality that the character experiences as she breathes in the fresh air from the window.
The references to the elixir of life in other literary works, as highlighted in the supplementary quotes, connect to the idea of a mystical potion that could grant immortality or heal. This powerful and often sought-after potion is a common theme in tales of alchemy and fantasy, representing humans' deep-seated desire for eternal life or a cure for all ailments.
While the term can be associated with magical or mythical potions, it can also refer to a drink that has the power to cure, invigorate, or impart vitality, which aligns with the sentiment expressed in Kate Chopin's narrative.