Situation irony
Mr. Chang understands the American law prohibiting businesses and any organization from employing undocumented citizens. Despite knowing that Booker is living in America illegally, Mr. Chang employs him. Instead of Mr. Chang following the law, he says, “American laws are speed pumps rather than curbs.” The reader finds it ironic that despite Mr. Chang knowing the consequences of breaking the law, he decides to break it anyway.
Keeping secrets from each other
Mr. and Mrs. Chang are happily married. Throughout their lives, they promise each other to be honest and open-minded. Consequently, the couple should not hide their secrets from each other. Ironically, when Mrs. Chang considers joining the country club, she keeps it a secret from her husband. Similarly, when Mr. Chang hires an illegal immigrant in his restaurant, he keeps it a secret from his wife.
Treating employees like servants
Mr. Chang is a successful businessperson who says his success is due to his hardworking employees. Ironically, instead of treating the employees professionally, Mr. Chang treats them as servants. Mr. Chang knows that employees must be respected to continue delivering, but he says they must do everything he wants because he gives them a lot of money. At last, employees leave the restaurant one by one until the restaurant collapses.
