A paradox is a seemingly absurd or self- contradictory statement, that once explained is true. Authors use paradox to force the reader to dig deeper and search for a meaning which is not visible in plain sight. By making the readers think and work to get to the real meaning, the author cleverly disposes of boredom.

Explain how each of the following sentences seem impossible. By pointing out how it contradicts itself, you point out the paradox. 1.I’m nobody. 2.The girl felt lonely in the crowded room. 3.You need to spend money to make money.

Last night I saw upon the stair A little man who wasn’t there He wasn’t there again today Oh, how I wish he’d go away... When I came home last night at three The man was waiting there for me But when I looked around the hall I couldn’t see him there at all! Go away, go away, don’t you come back any more! Go away, go away, and please don’t slam the door... (slam!) Last night I saw upon the stair A little man who wasn’t there He wasn’t there again today Oh, how I wish he’d go away!

1.Find a group of 3 to work with and open your books to Pick out at least 1 stanza from each section (37, 44, 68) that you believe contains a paradox. 3.Explain why your chosen section is a paradox. Determine if it also contains a maxim. 4.Create one paradox for each member of your group.