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Definition of Oxymoron
An oxymoron is a figure of speech in which two contradictory terms or ideas are intentionally paired in order to make a point—particularly to reveal a deeper or hidden truth... read full definition
An oxymoron is a figure of speech in which two contradictory terms or ideas are intentionally paired in order to make a point—particularly to reveal... read full definition
An oxymoron is a figure of speech in which two contradictory terms or ideas are intentionally paired in order to... read full definition
Chapter 1
Explanation and Analysis—Difference & Distinction:
In Chapter 1, Valerian and Margaret discuss the upcoming holidays and the whereabouts of their children, who may or may not visit the Isle de Chevaliers for Christmas. Valerian, concerned about the struggles of aging, uses an oxymoron to demonstrate his complex and ironic feelings on life and death:
“Retirement isn’t death.”
“A distinction without a difference.”
“Well, I am not dying. I am living.”
“A difference without a distinction.”
In the passage above, the phrases “a distinction without a difference” and “a difference without a distinction” are both oxymoronic statements. In the English language, “difference” and “distinction” are commonly used as synonyms: words with interchangeable meanings. Although oxymorons commonly refer to the pairing of two contradictory items, Valerian’s statements effectively create an unusual division between a "distinction" and a "difference." His language encourages readers to ponder the nature of life and death, and the way life and death may have a close association in Valerian's mind. Valerian views retirement akin to death, and perhaps life akin to death as well. Morrison leaves readers to imagine how Valerian distinguishes "distinction without a difference" from "difference without a distinction." Margaret does not respond to his comments, and Morrison does not raise the subject again in later parts of the novel. However, Valerian's oxymoronic comments contribute to his sense of cynicism, which is a defining part of his character throughout Tar Baby.
