Unsafe in their own country
The reason why the main character and his family found themselves in the situation to fear for their lives is because of the Vietnamese war. The narrator and his family took part of the losing side and this put them in great danger. What is ironic is that their lives were not threatened by some external force but rather by soldiers who were fighting for Vietnam and by an army composed of Vietnamese men and women.
From bad to worse
The only way through which the narrator and his family could escape from Vietnam was to embark on a ship heading to Australia. The people on the ship were sure they were safe and would never have to worry about their lives ever again. Because of this, it is ironic to see how the journey on the ship was far more dangerous than the prospect of being attacked by Vietnamese soldiers.
We will welcome you with open arms
The main reason why the ship was heading towards Australia was that the government offered to take in those who wanted to flee from the war and take care of them. Many who ran away from Vietnam never thought about the possibility of having to deal with racism and prejudice aimed at them. Because of this, it is ironic to see how the Vietnamese were treated with racism and with disrespect, especially when thinking about the initial promise made by the Australian government.
Life is harder here
Once the families arrived in Australia, the process of getting settled in began. Unfortunately, for many, this was not an easy process. Some found comfort in drugs and alcohol and these addictions made it even harder for them to have normal and happy lives. Ironically, many considered their new lives in Australia as being a lot harder when compared with the life they had in Vietnam. This is ironic because Vietnam was a war-torn country while Australia was a peaceful one.
Happy family
After reaching Australia, the narrator's family falls apart. The father becomes a drug addict and turns violent and the narrator's mother is unable to control her husband in any form. The husband eventually abandons the family and disappears for many years on end. What is ironic is that he decides to return back and instead of being held accountable for his actions, he is accepted with open arms.
