Prank Gone Wrong
Akin to other bored teenagers John and Lorraine engage in prank phone calls to find who can maintain the prank the longest. Since the aim of a prank is to lie to the victim long enough until the end of the phone call their prank goes too well. Mr. Pignati as the victim falls into the trap to the extent of a physical encounter that leads to an unlikely friendship between the three. Ironically the lines blur because the kids are not sure whether the prank is ongoing or it has turned into something genuine.
Not So Considerate
John and Lorraine believe that they are indeed goods kids despite the bad consequences of their actions. They tricked their way into Mr. Pignati’s life and created a friendship that only brought chaos into his world. Their intentions might be clear but they disregard the outcomes of their inconsiderate deeds. Though peer pressure is to blame John and Lorraine had the choice not to allow the house party that later causes damage.
Irony of Dishonesty
There are several instances of verbal irony in the narrative where the characters are dishonest about a situation. The friendship between the main characters is basically built on lies from both sides. For instance, Mr. Pignati says that his wife is on vacation but the kids later realize that Conchetta is actually dead.
Mr. Pignati’s Heart Attacks
The circumstances that lead to both heart attacks are quite ironic because of their fun and wholesome nature. In the first instance, Pignati is chasing the kids while playing with the roller skates he bought for them earlier. The old man has been lonely for some time now and this fun activity brings joy back to his life. Ironically he suffers a heart attack. The second and fatal heart attack occurs during the zoo visit meant to cheer up the old man. His favorite animal Bobo is revealed to have died which is a loss his fragile heart could not handle.
Miss Stewart’s Livingroom
Lorraine narrates her visit to Miss Stewart's house and finding her mother on a bed in the living room. The reason for this is that the teacher wants her mother to be part of the guest visits, as she will miss out if in the bedroom. The irony is that it is atypical to find a bed in the living room and better yet not as a means of encouraging visits. The image will only deter the visitors to return for a second visit willingly such as in the case of Lorraine. Therefore the whole purpose of her mother not missing out is defeated by the lack of frequent visits.
