The line 'Tale away our souls the strain and stress' is an example of which device?

• A. Alliteration
• B. Metaphor
• C. Onomatopoeia
• D. Irony

Answer: (D)

Irony occurs when the language or situation conveys a meaning opposite to what is stated, or when what happens contradicts what would be expected. In this line, the speaker seems to promise that something will take away the strain and stress from our souls, which sets up an expectation of relief. If the surrounding context shows that the burden remains or is intensified despite that promise, the effect is ironic—the statement points to relief while the reality undercuts it. You may notice the s-sounds in souls, strain, and stress as a striking stylistic touch (alliteration), but the main impact here is the ironic twist created by the contrast between what is claimed and what the situation actually conveys.