Comparing Irony and Paradox Narayan’s “Like the Sun” and Saki’s “The Open Window” English II Literature Textbook pp. 188-199

Irony Writers use different literary techniques in fiction to convey their messages. Irony is the effect created when a writer contrasts expectations and reality. In situational irony, an event directly contradicts strong expectations. Example: Someone buys an expensive outfit for a party where the main activity turns out to be playing a game of soccer in the mud.

Irony In verbal irony, a character states the opposite of what is meant. A writer may use quotation marks to indicate sarcasm of irony in these situations. Example: A tall person who has the nickname “Shorty”

Irony In dramatic irony, the reader knows something a character does not. Example: Fans watch as a confused football player spikes the ball and starts a victory dance one foot short of the goal line.

Paradox In addition to irony, writers may use paradox – an expression of two contradictory ideas that reveals a truth. For example, “It is cruel to be kind” is a paradox that shows the harm of not telling a painful truth. In “Like the Sun” and “The Open Window,” the writers use irony and paradox to explore contradictory ideas of honesty and deceit. Make inferences and draw conclusions as you read to identify and understand the use of these elements of fiction.

Critical thinking – Page 194 & 198 Answer all four questions in both sections. Be certain to support your responses with evidence from the text. This will be taken as a daily grade.