Point Out Some Elements of Irony in “Games at Twilight”.
Games at Twilight is a notable literary work by Anita Desai. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, to various questions of Games at Twilight.
Answer
Point out some elements of irony in “Games at Twilight.”
or Find out the irony in “Games at Twilight.”
Irony is a literary device that contrasts expectations and reality. In Anita Desai’s (1937-present) short story “Games at Twilight,” published in 1978, irony is a key element. It shapes the story’s deeper meaning.
Ravi’s Expectation of Glory: One major irony lies in Ravi’s expectation of glory, which is completely shattered by reality. In the story, the children play hide-and-seek. While hiding in the shed, Ravi fantasizes about winning the game. He wants to be admired. The football champion, Raghu, always wins. So, Ravi is determined to win the game this time.
However, the reality is far from his expectations. While hiding in the shed, he loses track of time. When Ravi finally comes out, excitedly crying, “I won, I won,” the game is already over. The other children had forgotten about him entirely. They switched to another game. This contrast between Ravi’s expectations and the outcome is situational irony.
Meaningless Efforts: Another ironic element is Ravi’s realization that he spent hours hiding in fear, only to discover that his efforts were meaningless.
Ravi hides in an old and dark shed. He thinks there could be insects and snakes in the dark shed. A spider tickles the back of his neck. While he hid to avoid being caught, he also forgot the basic rule of the game: to reach the veranda and touch the white pillar. By the time he comes out, the game is already over. Ironically, his efforts go in vain.
Funeral Game: Finally, there is dramatic irony in the ending. The children switched to the “funeral game.” Ravi refuses to join in this game. He wanted victory, but instead, he had been forgotten. As a part of the funeral game, the children chant:
Will you remember me when I’m dead?
This ending is also ironic because Ravi is not remembered when he is hiding.
In short, the ironic elements bring out the deeper meaning of the short story and intensify the emotional impact.