How do authors use irony in their writing?

Irony is a literary technique used by authors to convey meaning that is opposite or different from what is being said. Irony can be used to create humor, to emphasize a point, or to add depth and complexity to a story.

There are several types of irony that authors use in their writing. One common type is situational irony, which occurs when the opposite of what is expected happens. Another type is verbal irony, which occurs when what is said is different from what is meant. Finally, dramatic irony occurs when the audience knows something that the characters in the story do not.

Authors use irony in a variety of ways. For example, they may use it to create suspense, to reveal character traits, or to highlight themes or motifs. Irony can also be used to critique societal norms or to challenge the reader's assumptions.

One famous example of irony in literature is in the novel The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. The narrator, Nick Carraway, describes the title character as 'great' throughout the novel, but the reader soon realizes that Gatsby's wealth and success are built on illegal activities and that his life is anything but great.

Another example is the story of Oedipus, who unknowingly fulfills a prophecy that he will kill his father and marry his mother. The dramatic irony of the story is that the audience knows the truth, but Oedipus does not.

Overall, authors use irony in their writing to engage readers, add complexity to their stories, and convey meaning in unexpected ways.