The irony of the stranger
Shane is a stranger arriving at Joe Starrett's farm, and the first person to recognize him is Bob, Starret's son. Shane has never been to this place, and he feels that there is a possibility for him to be denied access. Ironically, Bob sees the greatness in Shane and accepts him. However, Bob is not sure if his parents can accept this stranger. Satirically, when Shane asks for Joe, he welcomes him jovially and even tells his wife to prepare him a meal. Under normal circumstances, people do not welcome strangers into their homes.
Womanhood as a ritual of isolation
Womanhood denotes independence of mind and motherhood. Consequently, a woman is an individual who is likable and accepted as the pillar of motherhood. Marian is aware of her role as a woman, and she takes pride in being at the kitchen when necessary to prepare food for her family. Ironically, Marian thinks that being an independent woman, she does not need the help of anybody whenever she does her duties. The reader finds it satirical when Marian concludes that womanhood is a ritual of isolation that contradicts societal expectations.
The satire of the landowners
The village farmers know very well the lands they till once belonged to their ancestors. However, the settlers and landowners invaded these lands for many years and took them forcefully from their ancestors. Currently, farmers like Joe are worried about their future because of the constant threats they get from the landowners. Ironically, the author hints that the landowners are aware that the farmers are the legitimate owners of those lands, but they keep on bringing confrontations to chase farmers away.
The irony of love
Marian is married to Joe for many years, and they have a son called Bob. However, things start changing when a stranger called Shane visits Joe's farm and is allowed to stay for a while. As time went by, Marian started getting attracted to Shane. Ironically, Joe knew that his wife involves herself in a love affair with Shane, but he concludes that Shane is a better man than him! Who does that? The reader finds it unbelievable that a husband can easily accept that another man is better for his wife.
The irony of capitalism
The novel largely explores the role of capitalism and its ideologies. Within the text, the reader learns that squatters are living in parcels owned by few landowners. Capitalism is about the equitable distribution of resources and giving each individual an opportunity to create wealth. Ironically, the text shows how landowners frustrate the efforts of farmers by bringing in confrontations every time. Therefore, capitalism fails to make sense when few individuals control the factors of production.
