Humor and Irony

Despite grim themes, the book uses dark humor and ironic twists, such as in 'The Shearing of the Cook's Dog' and the mistaken identity tales, to lighten the narrative and critique human folly.

Despite Tom's tragic circumstances, the narrative uses dark humor and irony, such as the squatter also ending up in the asylum and their friendship.

Mitchell's witty banter with the cabman, his mock indignation about the swag's appearance, and his final admission of having driven a cab himself highlight the story's comedic tone.

The story is told with a wry, humorous tone, especially in the narrator's cunning trick with the boot nail and the ironic twist that Bill had secretly saved money all along.

Mitchell's sarcastic comments and the ironic twist that the 'afflicted' man is actually a thief.