Explain the concept of irony in a poem.

The concept of irony in a poem refers to the use of language or situations that are different from what is expected or intended, creating a contrast between what is said or done and what is actually meant. Irony can be used to convey a deeper meaning, evoke emotions, or highlight contradictions within the poem.

There are several types of irony commonly found in poetry:

1. Verbal Irony: This occurs when the speaker says something but means the opposite. For example, if a poet describes a disastrous event as "a splendid success," it creates a sense of irony by contradicting the literal meaning of the words.

2. Situational Irony: This type of irony arises when there is a discrepancy between what is expected to happen and what actually occurs. For instance, if a poem describes a character's meticulous planning for a journey, only to have them encounter unexpected obstacles and fail, it creates situational irony.

3. Dramatic Irony: This occurs when the audience or reader knows something that the characters in the poem do not. It creates tension and anticipation as the audience waits for the characters to discover the truth. For example, if a poem portrays a character expressing their undying love for someone who is secretly planning to betray them, it creates dramatic irony.

Irony in poetry adds depth and complexity to the meaning of the poem. It can create a sense of surprise, challenge assumptions, or provoke thought. By using irony, poets can engage readers and make them question the intended message or explore different interpretations.