Previous
Tone
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
Key Examples in How it Feels to be Colored Me
Verbal Irony
Explanation and Analysis—The Welcomer :
Hurston employs verbal irony in "How it Feels to be Colored Me" when recalling her childhood memories of interacting with northern White tourists passing through Eatonville:
It is clear that I was the first “welcome-to-our-state” Floridian, and I hope the Miami Chamber of Commerce will please take notice.
Related Themes:
Explanation and Analysis—The Operation :
To illustrate her frustration at being constantly reminded of her genealogical ties to slavery, Hurston uses verbal irony when discussing the legacy of the Civil War:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Slavery is sixty years in the past. The operation was successful and the patient is doing well, thank you.
Related Themes:
