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Definition of Verbal Irony
Verbal irony occurs when the literal meaning of what someone says is different from—and often opposite to—what they actually mean. When there's a hurricane raging outside and someone remarks "what... read full definition
Verbal irony occurs when the literal meaning of what someone says is different from—and often opposite to—what they actually mean. When there's a hurricane raging... read full definition
Verbal irony occurs when the literal meaning of what someone says is different from—and often opposite to—what they actually mean... read full definition
Chapter 11
Explanation and Analysis—Lacking Empathy:
In Chapter 11, Rick criticizes Garland for responding flippantly to Phil Resch's impending realization that he is an android. Garland responds with verbal irony that points out a fallacy on which Rick's entire career rests:
“You androids,” Rick said, “don’t exactly cover for each other in times of stress.”
Garland snapped, “I think you’re right; it would seem we lack a specific talent you humans possess. I believe it’s called empathy.”
Related Themes:
Chapter 17
Explanation and Analysis—Intelligent Man:
In Chapter 17, after Rick and Rachael have sex and he decides not to kill her, they listen to the radio in the car. Oscar Scruggs, the man on the radio, speaks in a dialect that Rick disparages with verbal irony:
Unlock with LitCharts A+The radio said, “—ah jes wan ta tell ya, folks, that ahm sitten hih with my pal Bustuh, an we’re tawkin en havin a real mighty fine time, waitin expectantly as we ah with each tick uh the clock foh what ah understan is the mos important announcement of—” Rick shut the radio off.
“Oscar Scruggs,” he said. “The voice of intelligent man.”
Related Themes:
