Why is the poem Still I Rise is filled with sarcasm?

The poet's challenges to those she addresses are filled with irony rather than sarcasm. One of these ironies is the fact that in trying to oppress her, the oppressors are actually giving her the strength and will to survive. For example, she tells them, "You may trod me in the very dirt, but still, like dust, I'll rise." Treading her into the dirt is intended to stop her from moving forward. But it has the opposite effect, merely strengthening her resolve and making her rise higher than ever. The refrain "I rise" shows her continued resistance.