The purpose of the author’s use of an oxymoron in this paragraph is to imply a contradiction. The phrase "controlled chaos" suggests that while the situation is chaotic, there is still some level of control being maintained, which creates a contrast between the two ideas.
Use the paragraph to answer the question.
Gunther’s first day teaching kindergarten was best described as controlled chaos. By
afternoon, there was paint in places Gunther could never have predicted—including,
somehow, on the ceiling. But the art mishap did not even rank very high, comparatively,
on the minor crisis scale. Pitted against happenings such as the safety scissor haircut,
the toilet jam extravaganza, and the great lunch spill of 12:33…few events could clear the
high bar of being worthy of specific notice.
What purpose does the author’s use of an oxymoron serve in this paragraph?
(1 point)
It implies a contradiction.
It makes a thoughtful point.
It adds humor.
It highlights emotion.
1 answer