Verbal Irony
One example of verbal irony in "night, Mother" can be seen in the character of Jessie's mother, who repeatedly tells Jessie to "do what you have to do" in regard to her decision to commit suicide. On the surface, this seems like a supportive and understanding statement, but in reality, it is the opposite. Jessie's mother is actually trying to persuade Jessie not to go through with her plan and is using the phrase "do what you have to do" as a way of expressing her own frustration and helplessness. This use of verbal irony serves to highlight the tension and conflict between Jessie and her mother, and the way in which they misunderstand and miscommunicate with each other.
Dramatic Irony
Another example of irony in "night, Mother" is the use of dramatic irony, in which the audience knows something that the characters do not. For example, the audience is aware of Jessie's plan to commit suicide long before Jessie's mother is, and this creates a sense of tension and anticipation as the play progresses. The use of dramatic irony serves to heighten the emotional impact of the play, as the audience is forced to watch and wait as Jessie's mother tries to figure out what is going on and prevent Jessie from following through with her plan.
Situational Irony
Situational irony can be seen in the fact that Jessie, who is seemingly the one in control of her own life and decisions, is actually trapped and powerless in many ways. Despite her outward appearance of confidence and determination, Jessie is plagued by feelings of hopelessness and despair, and is unable to see any other way out of her situation. This ironic contrast between Jessie's appearance and reality serves to underscore the theme of the play, which is the way in which people can be trapped by their own thoughts and emotions.
Irony of Situation
Another example of irony in "night, Mother" is the irony of situation, in which something unexpected or absurd occurs. For example, the fact that Jessie decides to commit suicide on a seemingly ordinary night, while her mother is calmly going about her usual routine, is ironic and unexpected. This ironic contrast between the mundane and the tragic serves to emphasize the theme of the play, which is the way in which life can be unpredictable and full of surprises.
