Elements of Humour and Irony in the Story "The Snake and the Mirror"

Humour and irony are significant elements in storytelling that add depth, entertainment, and engage readers. In the story "The Snake and the Mirror" by Vaikom Muhammad Basheer, various elements of humour and irony are present, creating an engaging narrative for the readers.

1. Situational Irony:
The story revolves around the ironic situation of a snake being trapped in the protagonist's room. The snake, typically perceived as dangerous and feared, becomes a source of amusement and curiosity in this unexpected setting. The irony lies in the fact that the protagonist, who is usually terrified of snakes, finds himself in a situation where he must confront and deal with one.

2. Verbal Irony:
The protagonist's inner thoughts and dialogues with himself contain instances of verbal irony. For example, when he says, "I am not afraid of a snake," it is evident that he is indeed afraid, as he continuously tries to escape from the room. This creates a humorous contradiction between his words and actions, adding to the ironic and amusing tone of the story.

3. Absurdity:
The story incorporates elements of absurdity, which contribute to its humorous nature. The protagonist's exaggerated reactions and panic-stricken behavior towards the snake, coupled with his comical attempts to escape, create a sense of absurdity. Readers find amusement in the protagonist's over-the-top actions, which deviate from logical and rational behavior.

4. Satire:
Through the protagonist's encounter with the snake, the story satirizes human fears and phobias. The snake, which is traditionally feared and associated with danger, becomes a source of amusement and mockery. This satirical portrayal highlights the irrationality of certain fears and encourages readers to reflect on their own fears and anxieties.

5. Comic Timing:
Basheer skillfully employs comic timing throughout the story to enhance the humorous effect. The pauses, hesitations, and sudden revelations in the protagonist's thoughts and actions create comedic moments. For instance, when the snake suddenly disappears from the protagonist's sight, the timing of this revelation adds a comedic twist to the narrative.

In conclusion, the story "The Snake and the Mirror" incorporates various elements of humour and irony to engage readers. Through situational and verbal irony, absurdity, satire, and effective comic timing, the story takes a lighthearted approach to explore human fears and phobias. These elements contribute to the overall entertainment value of the narrative and make it an enjoyable read.