The Irony of Leda’s possession of the doll
When Elena gets lost, also her doll called Nani disappears. Ironically, lead finds the doll and decides to keep it despite knowing that Elena is hurting because she is separated from her doll. Leda decides to keep the doll because it reminds her of her past. Satirically, despite being a professor, Leda treats the doll as a child by buying it gifts and washing it every day.
The paradox of Gino
Gino is a paradoxical character in the book. Gino is a gentleman working at the beach as an attendant, and readers expect him to be an established man with a house or room within the beach where he can conduct his private business. Ironically, when Gino hits on Nina, he asks Leda to give him her rented apartment for a few hours. Leda realizes that Gino and Nina are having a sexual affair, and they want to have sex in her apartment.
The satire of Nina
Readers know that Nina is married to Tonino, and they have two daughters together. Ironically, when Nina and her kids go to the beach, she instantly falls in love with the beach attendant called Gino. Leda spots Gino kissing Nina, and she is disappointed in her. To make matters worse, Gino asks her to give them the key to her rented apartment so that they can make love.
The irony of Leda’s vacation at the beach
Leda's primary purpose in renting an apartment at the seashore is to forget her past and concentrate on writing and reading. Ironically, the beach brings back her memories overwhelmingly. For instance, when Leda sees Gino, she remembers her daughters and imagines how they could feel if they saw such a handsome young man. Additionally, Leda's memories are brought back when she meets the Neapolitan family. The reader notes that the doll reminds Leda about her past disturbing life.
