Irony in Poetry

Irony in poetry occurs when there's a contrast between what is expected and what actually happens or is meant. It often highlights a deeper meaning or comment by stating something that is opposite or different from reality. For example, a poet might describe a storm as "gentle" to reveal underlying chaos, or say "what a lovely day" during a thunderstorm. Irony adds depth, humor, or poignancy by encouraging readers to look beyond surface words and recognize the underlying message or contradiction. It’s a subtle technique that enriches the reader’s understanding of the poem’s themes.