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Oxymorons
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
Book 1, Chapter 11
Explanation and Analysis—Wintry Branches :
Images of candlelight in Miss Havisham's museum-like house are paradoxically described as "dark" and "wintry" in two instances. When in Chapter 11 Havisham sends Pip into an unfamiliar room that contains the rotted remains of her wedding feast, the narrator relates that
Certain wintry branches of candles on the high chimney-piece faintly lighted the chamber: or, it would be more expressive to say, faintly troubled its darkness.
Book 2, Chapter 29
Explanation and Analysis—Wintry Branches :
Images of candlelight in Miss Havisham's museum-like house are paradoxically described as "dark" and "wintry" in two instances. When in Chapter 11 Havisham sends Pip into an unfamiliar room that contains the rotted remains of her wedding feast, the narrator relates that
Unlock with LitCharts A+Certain wintry branches of candles on the high chimney-piece faintly lighted the chamber: or, it would be more expressive to say, faintly troubled its darkness.
Book 2, Chapter 39
Explanation and Analysis—A Smile or a Frown?:
In Chapter 39, when Pip's true patronage is revealed, Dickens describes the unreadable feelings displayed on Provis's face through the use of a paradox. As the returned convict gazes at Pip, the narrator describes his expression as
Unlock with LitCharts A+A smile that was like a frown, and with a frown that was like a smile.
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