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Idioms
Definition of Irony
Irony is a literary device or event in which how things seem to be is in fact very different from how they actually are. If this seems like a loose definition... read full definition
Irony is a literary device or event in which how things seem to be is in fact very different from how they actually are. If this... read full definition
Irony is a literary device or event in which how things seem to be is in fact very different from how... read full definition
Chapter 12: Dick Hires a Room on Mott Street
Explanation and Analysis—Mrs. Mooney:
When Dick rents a room on Mott Street from Mrs. Mooney, he amazes his landlady by telling her, in a moment of dramatic irony, that he's coming from Astor House:
“I’ll bring over my baggage from the Astor House this evening,” said Dick in a tone of importance.
“From the Astor House!” repeated Mrs. Mooney, in fresh amazement.
“Yes, I’ve been stoppin’ there a short time with some friends,” said Dick.
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Chapter 24: Dick Receives a Letter
Explanation and Analysis—Dick's Jokes:
Dick is a quick talker and never tires of cracking jokes, even with people he's just met. Many of his jokes derive their humor from the suggestion that Dick is a wealthy or prominent figure, when he and his interlocutors know well that he's a poor and insignificant boot-black. These jokes are examples of verbal irony, since the literal meaning of Dick's words is very different from what he actually means.
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