Irony of Hatch’s Superiority
Hatch subscribes to a Machiavellian/Nietzschean philosophy of “might makes right,” as he says verbatim on page 125. His entire view of the “eagles and chickens” is founded upon a higher valuation of electric humans than normal humans, based on their increased strength. He himself, however, is not electric (a “Nonel,” in his own derogatory terminology), so his assumption of power is hypocritical.
Irony of the Ranch’s Destruction
The Elgen believe that their destruction of the resistance’s base at Timepiece Ranch gives them a serious advantage in the fight, as they believe the resistance was mostly wiped out. Their actions, however, actually give the resistance an advantage, as the Elgen think they no longer exist, giving them an element of surprise.
Irony of Naco
Simon takes the Electroclan to Naco, Mexico, “the city forgotten by God,” in order for them to lie low and draw no attention to themselves. While there, however, Michael fights a gang with his electric powers and draws the reputation of “lightning boy,” resulting in much-unwanted attention in a place specifically chosen to avoid that.
Irony of Taylor and Tara
Taylor and Tara are identical twins, but they couldn’t be more different. Taylor is kind and works with the Electroclan to stop the atrocities perpetrated by Dr. Hatch and the Elgen. Tara, on the other hand, is loyal to Hatch and enjoys committing the misdemeanors he encourages her to commit. She is unintelligent and subscribes to his philosophy of the eagles and the chickens, while Taylor is smart and refused Hatch’s offer to join the Elgen Academy.
Irony of Michael’s Tourette’s
Michael’s Tourette’s Syndrome makes him appear to be less powerful than any given normal human; it conveys a sense of weakness and dependence. On the contrary, however, Michael is essentially the most physically powerful person in the world; his powers are greater than those of all the other Glows, and his rage is something to be feared even by Hatch and his army.
