Irony

Definition:
Irony is the use of words to express a meaning that is the opposite of its literal meaning. In Literature, irony is a technique that reveals, through plot development or character, an intention or attitude opposite to that which is actually or supposedly stated. In contemporary writing, irony is a manner of organizing writing so that it provides demonstration to contradictory or complementary impulses or attitudes to indicate separation from a subject, theme or emotion. Irony is also the outcome of events contrary to what was expected and an objectively sardonic style of speech or writing.

Examples from Heat and Dust:
1. Irony is portrayed in the novel during the first few days that Chid is staying at the narrator's house. While Chid stays at the narrator's house, they have sex. This is ironic since the narrator previously states that she 'still doesn't know anything about him' (64). She goes on to express how Chid seems to 'take it for granted that I [narrator] will give it [sex] to him' and that she has 'never had such a feeling of being used' (65). However, despite all her disagreements on the subject, the narrator for no reason gives in to Chid's request and has sex with Chid. This scene of the novel demonstrates irony since the reader believes that the narrator has strong feelings of disapproval for Chid's demands, believing that she will not let him go ahead, though, in the end, unexpectedly, she does. 2. Irony is depicted in the novel after Olivia has sex with the Nawab on Husband's Wedding Day. Shortly after the act between Olivia and the Nawab, Olivia finds out she is pregnant. This scene of the novel demonstrates irony since Olivia for a very long time had been trying to get pregnant with Douglas and had never been able to. After having tried with the Nawab just one time, she immediately 'found out she was pregnant' (141).