Spilling the beans
When the police raid the Telegraph Club, Kathleen is arrested, but Lily manages to escape. Lily is frustrated, and she decides to call Kathleen's parents to know about her whereabouts. Ironically, while conversing, Lily confesses to Kathleen's parents that their daughter is a lesbian and in love. Kathleen's parents are dumbfounded to hear such information, and they refuse to believe. Consequently, it is ironic that Lily spills the beans by letting out her secretive and guarded sexual relationship with Kathkeen.
The paradox of societal expectations
Society has set morals and traditions they consider significant in the community. For instance, society believes that a woman has to marry a man and vice versa. Anything that goes the contrary is unacceptable and evil. Ironically, society does not know that it is ignorant because matters of sexuality are inborn and based on an individual's physical appearance.
The satire of Shirley
Shirley is a satirical character who is against the relationship between Lily and Kathleen. Shirley wants Lily to stay away from Kathleen for unclear reasons. Ironically, Lily stays put and decides to see Kathleen secretly. Similarly, Lily maintains her relationship and friendship with Shirley despite their differences.
The paradox of the reunion
The main paradox in the novel is the reunion between Kathleen and Lily, who decide to share their love despite the opposition from their parents. When Lily's parents discover that she is lesbian, they remove her from school and send her to live with Aunt Judy. Similarly, Kathleen is taken by the police when the Telegraph Club is raided. Ironically, despite their parents' separation and opposition, the two love birds look for each other and share the romance afterwards.
