Little Ironies- The Taximan's Story

What is the irony in this story?

Throughout the whole story the taximan talks about teenagers making themselves cheap and about them going to hotels to entertain Eurasians but in reality, his daughter is doing those type of things as well. Moreover, he also makes money off these teenagers and is not afraid to admit it. This greatly contradicts what he is trying to talk to his passenger about.

What are the themes raised in this story?

• How teenagers in the 21st century differ from those of a different time(in terms of obedience)

• How materialistic teenagers are these days(making themselves cheap to satisfy their materialistic needs).

• How parents are less willing to hand out physical punishment .

How realistic is this story?

This story is actually very true. It is not particularly rare to see things like this happening in Singapore. However, I feel that "wallet full of American money" is a bit too unrealistic and exaggerated.

What do you think of the taximan? Do you feel sympathy for him?

Although I feel that he contradicts himself, he should be pitied. He is trying to make ends meet and also saving up for his daughter's university fund but she goes off making herself cheap and entertaining the Eurasians.

Do you agree with his lamenting?

Yes, I do. Nowadays, many teenagers are more rebellious and less willing to obey their parents. Thus it is understandable how the taximan feels.

What about the other characters in the story? Do you feel sympathy for them?

No. Even if they wanted to earn money, they should do it properly and not try to earn a quick buck by entertaining the Eurasians.