Previous
Motifs
Definition of Paradox
A paradox is a figure of speech that seems to contradict itself, but which, upon further examination, contains some kernel of truth or reason. Oscar Wilde's famous declaration that "Life is... read full definition
A paradox is a figure of speech that seems to contradict itself, but which, upon further examination, contains some kernel of truth or reason. Oscar... read full definition
A paradox is a figure of speech that seems to contradict itself, but which, upon further examination, contains some kernel... read full definition
Key Examples in A Clockwork Orange
Part 2, Chapter 3
Explanation and Analysis—(Not) Choosing to Be Good:
In Part 2, Chapter 3, when "the charles" or the prison chaplain drunkenly explains the Ludovico Technique to Alex, he tries to justify it using paradoxical thinking:
You are passing now to a region where you will be beyond the reach of the power of prayer. A terrible terrible thing to consider. And yet, in a sense, in choosing to be deprived of the ability to make an ethical choice, you have in a sense really chosen the good.
Related Themes:
Part 2, Chapter 5
Explanation and Analysis—Feeling Worse is Better:
In Part 2, Chapter 5, Dr. Branom explains the effects of Alex's treatment in a very paradoxical way:
Unlock with LitCharts A+'You felt ill this afternoon,' he said, 'because you're getting better. When we're healthy we respond to the presence of the hateful with fear and nausea. You're becoming healthy, that's all.'
Related Themes:
Part 2, Chapter 7
Explanation and Analysis—Feeling Worse is Better:
In Part 2, Chapter 5, Dr. Branom explains the effects of Alex's treatment in a very paradoxical way:
Unlock with LitCharts A+'You felt ill this afternoon,' he said, 'because you're getting better. When we're healthy we respond to the presence of the hateful with fear and nausea. You're becoming healthy, that's all.'
Related Themes:
