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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
Part 1
Explanation and Analysis—Imaginary San Angelo:
After Rawlins and John Grady have departed for Mexico in Part 1, the two discuss what their families may be up to back at home. John Grady uses verbal irony to reassert San Angelo's poverty and boringness:
Wonder what all they’re doin back home? Rawlins said.
John Grady leaned and spat. Well, he said, probably they’re havin the biggest time in the world. Probably struck oil. I’d say they’re in town about now pickin out their new cars and all.
Shit, said Rawlins.
More than just the cynical sarcasm teenagers often entangle themselves in, this joke by John Grady reveals the dire situation of the ranchers in San Angelo: it is only a funny joke because the idea of them thriving is outlandish. In reality, John Grady and Rawlins left their homes in Texas because there were no opportunities for them there. In John Grady's case, the family's ranch had already been sold.
Additionally, for the Cole family, San Angelo would have been a somber place at this time, not suited for a party at all. John Grady's grandfather recently passed away, and his mother left his father to be a performer. With this context in mind, John Grady's sarcastic assessment of the situation in San Angelo underscores how unhappy he was there. No matter the conditions on the road, he is happy to have an escape.
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