Chika’s Privilege (Situational Irony)
In "A Private Experience," Chika’s privilege grants her numerous social advantages. She receives a college education, thus furthering her prospects within society. In addition, she has a personal, private driver that grants her mobility and accessibility. However, it is ironic that Chika's privilege, which allowed her to travel outside of her neighborhood, landed her in an unsafe situation—in the midst of violent social unrest. She is exposed to danger, and she is confronted with life's fragility.
The American Dream (Situational Irony)
For both Chinaza ("The Arrangers of Marriage") and Akunna ("The Thing Around Your Neck"), the American Dream is enticing and exciting. Both protagonists and their respective families have high hopes for sending these young women to the United States. However, upon their arrivals, both women are deeply disappointed with their new lives. They find that they have been confronted with the nightmares of living and surviving in the United States. They are unable to financially support themselves, thus hindering their independence. They end up wanting to return to Nigeria, which indicates that their lives in America are riddled with struggles.
James's Ghosts (Situational Irony)
In "Ghosts," the narrator learns about James Nwoye's life. Educated in the Western tradition, James has long-since abandoned his Nigerian heritage and folk customs. In order to advance in Nigerian society, the adoption of Western ideals and practices is necessary. However, James admits that the ghost of his wife regularly visits him. This admission indicates that as much as James wishes to distance himself from his roots, the ties to his traditions are unavoidable. In an instance of situational irony, the further he moves from his traditional culture, the more it comes back to haunts him
Overbearing Parents (Situational Irony)
Neil and Tracy are preoccupied with raising their son, Josh, in a healthy and well-rounded environment. They advocate for safety issues, encourage early literacy, and try to place Josh in a culturally rich environment. However, their preoccupation with structure is ultimately harmful for their young son. Josh shows symptoms of having anxiety, which is a direct reaction to the pressure placed on him to succeed.
