In a nutshell: Both irony and paradox twist words so the real meaning sits just under the surface.
You already read the gap between words and meaning.
When a friend steps out into pouring rain and says ‘Lovely weather’, you know they mean the opposite. That gap between the words and the truth is irony — and writers use it on purpose.
Here's each one, with an example:
One clear example of each
Irony
Saying or meaning the opposite of the plain words — or an outcome that's the reverse of what you'd expect. A fire station that burns down. ‘Great, another flat tyre,’ said on the worst possible morning.
Paradox
A statement that seems to contradict itself, yet reveals something true. ‘The more you have, the less you feel.’ It stops you, then makes sense.
The key move: Name it — irony or paradox — then say what the gap makes the reader think or feel.
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Why it matters in the exam: Irony and paradox are worth analysing because they carry a second meaning: you show you can read past the plain words to the point underneath. Name which one it is, then explain the truth or the effect it slips in.
Analyse the irony and paradox: “The safety pamphlet, printed on paper that would not survive a light rain, warned us to prepare for anything. In trying to save everyone, it helped no one.”
Model answer plan
See the mark-by-mark plan — for / against / judgement, with marking guidance — in study mode.
Watch out: Don't mix them up. Irony = the meaning is the opposite of the words; paradox = one statement that contradicts itself but is true. Name which, then the effect.