So, what exactly is irony?
Irony, by definition, is the use of words to express something other than, and especially the opposite of, the literal meaning. This should NOT be confused with sarcasm, which is defined as a sharp and often satirical or ironic utterance designed to cut or cause pain to an individual. Even though sarcasm has the word "ironic" in its definition, it is not the same thing as irony. For The Gadfly's purposes, sarcasm is inappropriate because it is an attack against a person "designed to give pain." Sarcasm is a low blow. It serves only to harm others. Irony is more sophisticated than sarcasm and just plain cooler.
Why use irony?
Like I said, we write irony. Why is this? Well, for two reasons:
- Most of our writers have never written irony before, so it is a challenge that helps them to learn a new writing style.
- Irony is humorous. We believe that readers are more inclined to read our material if it is funny. Plus, if you scrutinize the articles very carefully then you might notice that humor can often be used as subterfuge, disguising very serious points that our writers are making.
Disclaimer:
As a general rule, the editor of The Gadfly does not censor his/her writers. This is because, as a student organization, we believe in our First Amendment rights, such as freedom of speech and freedom of the press. We do strive for original and intelligent articles for publication, but because articles are solicited exclusively for The Gadfly from full-time college students (who oftentimes lead very busy and hectic lives), it is extremely difficult for us, as a publication, to always maintain the same high standard. Therefore, not every Gadfly will appeal to every reader. Please do not send vulgar or offensive hate mail to the editor or the Department of Philosophy and Religion at Western Carolina University, though constructive (or even better, ironic) hate mail is always welcomed. We hope you will find our articles enlightening and humorous.
-- The Gadfly Editor