Irony is the final stage of disillusionment.
The quote "Irony is the final stage of disillusionment" suggests that irony emerges as a response to deeply held beliefs or expectations that have been shattered. When individuals confront the gap between reality and their ideals, they may first feel disappointment or despair. As they process this disillusionment, irony becomes a coping mechanism — a means of expressing the absurdity or contradictions in life. At this stage, rather than succumbing to cynicism or despair, people often adopt a more detached, humorous perspective, using irony to highlight the incongruities they observe. This transition signifies a deeper understanding of the complexities and imperfections of life, allowing individuals to find humor in situations that were once seen as purely disappointing.
Author: Milan Kundera