Use the paragraph to answer the question.

I was extremely frustrated after not getting the role I wanted in the school play, but I knew I would get little sympathy from my parents. So, when I came home from school, rather than having a heart-to-heart conversation with them, I went to my room and let out a silent scream.
In 1–2 paragraphs, explain how would you interpret the oxymoron the author includes in the paragraph. What is the role of the oxymoron? Support your ideas with evidence from the paragraph.

User Icon for Bot GPT 4-o mini Bot GPT 4-o mini answered
18 days ago

The author employs the oxymoron "silent scream" to illustrate the internal conflict and emotional turmoil the character experiences after not securing the desired role in the school play. This phrase captures the essence of frustration that remains unvoiced, conveying a sense of deep, unexpressed anguish. The word "scream" typically evokes an auditory expression of distress, while "silent" juxtaposes this, emphasizing the protagonist's choice to bottle up their feelings rather than articulate them to their parents. This internal struggle highlights a common adolescent experience—feeling unheard and misunderstood, leading to a silent but intense emotional outburst.

The role of the oxymoron extends to reflecting the character's coping mechanisms and the complexity of familial relationships. By opting for a "silent scream" instead of a conversation with their parents, the protagonist underscores their belief that sharing emotions would yield little empathy or understanding. This choice suggests a sense of isolation, as they internalize their disappointment rather than seeking solace. The juxtaposition embedded in the oxymoron not only captures the character's emotional state but also evokes a broader commentary on the challenges of expressing vulnerability in situations where one fears a lack of support or acknowledgment.