Irony of Feminism
When Elaine attends a feminist meeting, many of the women talk solely about their bad experiences with men. For Elaine, however, her traumatic experiences were caused by other women. There is a suggestion here that feminists might not consider the full extent of the issues women face, and that often it is women themselves who cause pain for other women. Additionally, Margaret Atwood herself is often seen as a strong feminist, however this text seems to criticize the feminist ideology, exploring the fact that it is often women who cause pain to other women.
Irony of cruelty
Although Elaine condemns Cordelia and the other girls for how cruel they were towards her in childhood, she doesn't acknowledge how cruel she was towards Cordelia in high school. There is an irony here as Elaine is so concerned with blaming Cordelia, she fails to see that she has done the same thing. Even as Elaine grows older, she continues to condemn Cordelia, and does not fully acknowledge that the two women have similarities.
Irony of outcome
At first it seems Cordelia might continue to be in a position of power throughout the novel, however the dynamics between Cordelia and Elaine change dramatically. Cordelia is held back in high school, and afterwards to fails to pursue a career as an actress. At the end of the novel when Cordelia is committed to a mental facility, it is Elaine who has the choice and power to help Cordelia. However, this seems ironic as Cordelia had so much power over Elaine at the beginning of the novel.
