Dying in the Desert
Every year, people die in the desert, which is ironic considering that, according to Austin, "there are many areas in the desert where drinkable water lies within a few feet of the surface."
The Woods Are Too Still!
Austin claims that "it is the complaint of the ordinary camper that the woods are too still," which is ironic because the campers' noise is the reason why animals stay away from them.
The Pocket Hunter
The Pocket Hunter has always dreamed of living in England after he strikes it rich. Once he has the opportunity, however, he only stays there for a short period of time and soon returns to the desert, which is an example of cosmic irony. Austin states, "No man can be stronger than his destiny."
The Field
Austin conveys a sense of irony by claiming that her neighbor's field "will hardly be happier. No, certainly not happier" after the owner has sold the plots to build a town. Even though it will have all the modern amenities that are supposed to make life easier and people happier, in her opinion the simple lifestyle within a beautiful environment makes people happier.
The People of Las Uvas
Describing the people of El Pueblo de Las Uvas, Austin notes that they "speak a purer Castilian than obtains in like villages of Mexico," which is ironic given that they are a mix of people from different parts of the world and living in the United States. Austin, therefore, emphasizes the purifying qualities that a simple life in harmony with nature has.
