The oxymoron "silent scream" in the paragraph serves to underscore the deep emotional turmoil the narrator feels while dealing with frustration and disappointment. On one hand, a scream is typically associated with loudness and an outward expression of distress; on the other, the word "silent" suggests a suppressed or internalized emotion. This juxtaposition effectively conveys the narrator's inability to express their feelings openly, reflecting their isolation and the internal conflict they face.
The evidence lies in the context of the narrator's experience: after not receiving the desired role in the school play, they opt for solitude rather than seeking comfort from their parents, anticipating their lack of sympathy. The phrase "silent scream" encapsulates this conflicted state, as it signifies a yearning for release and validation that remains unexpressed. The narrator's choice to retreat to their room further emphasizes their need to process their emotions in solitude, highlighting the complexity of their feelings and the struggle between vulnerability and the desire for control over their circumstances.