Irony

Saying one thing while meaning another, often the opposite. The true meaning is left to the reader or listener.

In Notes from Underground

because twice two is mathematics. Try to argue back.

The narrator cites mathematics as the definitive argument and at once invites: «Try to argue back». The tone of someone who considers the question closed imitates the authority he rejects, and the reader realizes that the deference is feigned.

Part One: The Underground, the underground man

After all, gentlemen: it is better to do nothing! Better conscious inertia! So, long live the underground!

Part One: The Underground, the underground man

We are stillborn, and it has been a long time since we were born of living parents, and this pleases us more and more. We are getting the taste for it. Before long we will come up with being born of an idea.

Part Two: Apropos of Wet Snow, the underground man