The Irony of unrealistic dreams
Dreaming big is a good thing, but it because satirical when it is unrealistic. The author presents a group of West Indian immigrants led by Battersby with big dreams of owning a house through fundraising. However, the dream of owning a house is a castle in the air because Battersby and his friends do not have good jobs and earnings to enable them to save and mobilize funds to achieve their dream.
The Irony of Battersby
Battersby is the group leader who convinces his like-minded friends to pay rent by buying their own homes. Ironically, the reader realizes that Battersby and his friends do not have an elaborate strategy on how to raise the required funds. For instance, the reader realizes these people do not have opportunities that can enable them to actualize their dream.
The satire of immigrants
From the onset of the story, West Indian immigrants are depicted as not treated equally by Londoners. Consequently, racial discrimination is present, and people of Indian descent are treated unfairly. Ironically, these immigrants are optimistic to the extent of thinking that they can compete with the Natives of London in homeownership!
The paradox of Alfy
Alfy is a satirical character who dreams big as Banjo. Ironically, the author indicates that Alfy’s dreams are doomed even before he plans to actualize his vision. For instance, the author states that Alfy’s dreams for success do not require unwarranted arrest for them to be doomed.
