Irony of Hana
Hana is in many ways the total opposite of Asterios: sensitive, soft-spoken, gentle, extremely talented, and constantly producing works of art. She was constantly ignored by her parents growing up so she grew up with the pathological need to prove herself worthy of love and attention. Because of this she actually becomes an extraordinarily gifted artist and student, even graduating at the top of her class. None of her accolades however mover her parents to acknowledge her so over time she develops a deep seated insecurity and she begins to set ridiculously high standards for herself ensuring her failure.
Irony of Asterios
Asterios, in contrast to Hana, has an unusually high opinion about his own talents. He lectures regularly at the University of Ithaca for architecture classes and although he has won a number of awards for his designs the reality is that none of his designs have ever actually left the drafting table and become a building. This fact has earned him the contemptuous title of paper architect, in effect saying that he is only an architect by virtue of a diploma but he has never really proven his mettle through any other means.
Irony of Willy Ilium
Willy Ilium, the pint-sized blowhard that bulldozes his way into the lives of Hana and Asterios introduces himself as a choreographer inspired by the works that Hana has produced. He insists that Hana participate in his rendition of Orpheus by being both his muse and his set designer. When asked about his experience he reveals that doesn’t—very likely is incapable—of actually dancing.
Irony of Jackson’s nickname
Stiff’s son is given the nickname Running Dog by Geronimo because of his communist leanings. His unfortunate moniker however is actually an insult, a nasty one at that, but his parents don’t know any better. Stiff is an henpecked idiot who only thinks about his shop and Ursula thinks it’s Native American name because she fancies herself spiritually connected to them believing herself to be a reincarnation of a Native American Shaman because so devoted to new age practices.
Irony of Jackson’s Treehouse
The first, and perhaps the only one Asterios’ works to become a reality is not a grand building but a treehouse for a child. There is an extra layer of irony in his choice of building project, as treehouses are notoriously known for its highly seasonal nature: once a child outgrows his treehouse it will very likely be abandoned where it will eventually come to ruin. Ironic, given Asterios ego and his desire for recognition.
