Zauner's Mother Gets Sick (Dramatic Irony)
Zauner notes that it is shocking that her mother became sick because she has always been extremely healthy. In contrast, her father is a recovered drug addict who drinks heavily. She said that they always expected her to outlive him, but in a strange twist of fate she is the one who is diagnosed with cancer. In this instance of dramatic irony, Zauner's mother is the one to fall ill, despite the fact that she has been so much more careful with her health than Zauner's father was.
Eunmi Dies on Valentine's Day (Situational Irony)
Zauner's aunt Eunmi also dies from cancer. Zauner states that her aunt was also very serious about her academics and career, being the only person to attend college in her family and graduating with high grades. She also never marries or has children, living a generally modest lifestyle. She is diagnosed with cancer and passes away on Valentine's Day, which Zauner thinks is cruel timing for a woman who had never had a romantic relationship. In this instance of situational irony, Zauner observes that the date of Eunmi's death is completely misaligned with the lack of romantic love in her life.
Album Becomes Recognized When Zauner Quits Music (Dramatic Irony)
Under the band name Japanese Breakfast, Zauner records an album before moving to New York. She calls it "Psychopomp," referencing a concept developed by psychologist Carl Jung. She puts a picture of her mother on the cover. She doesn't plan to go on tour with the songs from the album and views it as her goodbye to the music, as she has just accepted a 9-to-5 office job. However, the album garners critical praise and eventually Zauner puts together a band and goes on the road. In this instance of dramatic irony, Zauner finally achieves the artistic success she has been working towards for years only after she has given up on music.
Wanting to Keep the Darkness Out (Situational Irony)
Zauner returns home to Eugene for her mother's first round of chemotherapy. Sitting on the roof above her childhood bedroom, she reflects on what she used to do in high school, frequently driving around at night with friends and listening to different alternative rock bands. She says that where before she wanted to go out into the darkness to escape her home, now she wants to keep it out. In this instance of situational irony, Zauner describes the direct opposition between her adult and teenage wishes.
