The Fate of Bucky's Relationship (Situational Irony)
While hospitalized in Philadelphia, Bucky's biggest concern is that he will lose the love of his life. However, Marcia visits and reaffirms her undying love for her fiancé. She vows to care for him in sickness and in health, and she explains that she will stand by his side regardless of his setbacks. Despite Marcia's sincerity, Bucky is convinced that she does not want a disabled husband. Thus, it is ironic that Bucky causes the relationship to crumble because he refuses to accept Marcia's love.
The Carelessness of the Playground (Dramatic Irony)
The students at Chancellor Avenue School view the playground as an innocent community gathering space. On the playground, the children are able to pretend that life is normal. However, the reader is aware that the playground in fact signifies a loss of innocence. While once a playful space, the intensity of the polio epidemic transforms it into a site of tragedy, grieving, and paranoia.
Sense of Control (Situational Irony)
Throughout his life, Bucky is haunted by his lack of control. He feels as though he is unable to control the devastating effects of polio or prevent the wartime death of his best friend. Although Bucky cannot control the world in which he lives, he is able to control his own thoughts and self-perception. However, it is precisely Bucky's guilt, shame, and poor self-esteem—the things that are most within his control— that end up limiting him the most.
Bucky as the Polio Carrier (Situational Irony)
When Donald contracts polio, Bucky is convinced that he asymptomatically carried the disease from Newark to Indian Hill. He is unable to properly cope with his friend's illness because he is clouded by his own guilt. It is ironic that Bucky sees himself as the deliverer of disease instead of monitoring his own condition. He soon discovers that he also has polio, and his life is changed forever.
