The paradox of radioactive substance
Zorrie is working in a radium factory alongside her best friends. Zorrie and her friends have yellowish teeth due to the radioactive substance they are exposed to in the factory. Ironically, the people working in the factory believe that the radioactive substance is healthy. The reader finds it paradoxical that a substance that turns the color of teeth can still be considered healthy.
The satire of life
Zorrie's life is darkly satirical. For instance, Zorrie loses both her parents and becomes an orphan early. Ironically, Zorrie's only hope, her aunt, also dies, and she becoming homeless. The irony in this context is that Zorrie questions God why all the bad things happen in her life since she is an innocent child.
The irony of happiness
Happiness is a product of contentment, and readers expect Zorrie to be exultant after getting married to Harold. Ironically, Zorrie loses her infant child soon after realizing that she is pregnant! Consequently, Zorrie's life is full of misfortunes even after good luck knocks at her door.
The irony of love
When Zorrie returns home from Illinois, she is employed by an elderly couple. Zorrie is expected to abide by the rules and, more importantly, act professionally. Ironically, when Zorrie meets Harold, the employer's son, she becomes attracted. Consequently, love has no boundaries because it surpasses professionalism.
