The reader or audience knows something the character does not, so the character's words and deeds take on a meaning he himself does not perceive.
In White Nights
I love you because you did not fall in love with me.
Nastenka praises the Dreamer for “not falling in love,” and the reader knows he is already in love. The remark takes on a meaning she does not perceive, and that is what makes the praise cruel.
Third and Fourth Nights and the Morning: The wait and the outcome, Nastenka
Oh, Nastenka, Nastenka! If you only knew what loneliness I am in now!
Third and Fourth Nights and the Morning: The wait and the outcome, the Dreamer
And the cobweb, I took it all off the ceiling; now one can even get married and invite guests.
Third and Fourth Nights and the Morning: The wait and the outcome, Matryona
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