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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
Chapter 5: The Feast of Fear
Explanation and Analysis—Public Concealment:
In Chapter 5, it is revealed that while the Council of Anarchists used to conduct all of their meetings covertly and in hiding, they now hold all of their planning sessions out in the open at a public, ordinary restaurant. This revelation is an example of paradox:
I’d better tell you that he is carrying out his notion of concealing ourselves by not concealing ourselves to the most extraordinary lengths just now. Originally, of course, we met in a cell underground, just as your branch does. Then Sunday made us take a private room at an ordinary restaurant. He said that if you didn’t seem to be hiding nobody hunted you out. [...] For now we flaunt ourselves before the public. We have our breakfast on a balcony—on a balcony, if you please—overlooking Leicester Square.
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Chapter 11: The Criminals Chase the Police
Explanation and Analysis—The Poor Rich Peasant:
While helping the detectives escape the Secretary’s army in Chapter 11, Ducroix enlists the help of a French peasant, who he paradoxically refers to as a man who is rich because he looks poor:
Unlock with LitCharts A+“Mr. Syme is saying,” called out Ratcliffe to the French colonel, “that this man, at least, will never be an anarchist.”
“Mr. Syme is right enough there,” answered Colonel Ducroix, laughing, “if only for the reason that he has plenty of property to defend. But I forgot that in your country you are not used to peasants being wealthy.”
“He looks poor,” said Dr. Bull doubtfully.
“Quite so,” said the colonel; “that is why he is rich.”
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