Irony of the Teddy Bear Camera
A teddy bear is one of the most innocent toys of childhood and Meredith's childhood was destroyed by the man she should have been able to trust the most, thereby causing her to cast aside symbols of a happy childhood like a teddy bear. Ironically it is the camera hidden in the teddy bear that records her father attempting to assault her again, in some ways restoring her childhood to something that better resembles normal.
Irony of Meredith's Mother
Typically when a child is harmed in any way it is the mother who is the most protective and puts the needs of the child ahead of her own. In Sharon Shale's case her protective instincts extend to her husband, the abuser of her child, and her picture of her family life, not to her daughter; in fact rather than protecting Meredith she is determined to put her back into harm's way, not only by welcoming Charles back into the family but also by ignoring the terms of his parole and leaving him alone with Meredith.
Irony of Paula Mues' Faith
Paula Mues is a deeply devout woman with genuine and abiding faith in God. When sharing this faith with others it is usually to awaken faith in them too, but when Charles comes looking for Meredith at her home, she uses her religious fervor as a device for getting rid of him, knowing that calling him a Child of God and suggesting he ask for forgiveness will make him leave quickly. Her faith is still protecting her even when she is displaying it to have an effect in repelling someone, not bringing them within.
Irony of Andy Leaving Town To Be Healed
Andy believes that he will be able to walk again if he visits an old healer in Iowa, knowing that he is unable to heal himself whilst he is living opposite Meredith's father, but it is Meredith who ultimately heals him by ridding the community of her father. Also, the statue that he feels has not healed him actually becomes the instrument for his deliverance as Meredith uses it as a weapon to disable her father.
Irony of Meredith as the victim
Meredith is a victim; she is a victim of her father's sexual abuse. She is a victim of a mother who puts her own needs above the need to protect her child. She is the victim of a justice system that allowed her abuser access to her after just three years and the promise to keep her safe that they broke. She is also the victim of circumstances that happen around and to her. Ultimately though even when all of the entities who would seem to have power are powerless to save her Meredith goes from victim to the only person who succeeds in saving herself and others from future abuse.
