A man said to the universe: “Sir, I exist!” “However,” replied the universe, “The fact has not created in me “A sense of obligation.” –“A Man Said to the Universe,” Stephen Crane How does irony reveal naturalist themes here?

It indirectly states that the universe knows about mankind but doesn't feel a sense of obligation to care and shows that humankind is self-centered to think that the universe should care for their existence. Not only this but It reveals humanity's helplessness against external forces.

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luzgiussani luzgiussani · Answer 2 · 2019-10-10T23:47:58+02:00

Answer:

The irony reveals naturalistic themes here establishing how nature is superior and governs the character of the human being, which is one of the main characteristics of naturalistic themes.

Explanation:

The idea that the environment determines and governs the human being is clear in this quotation.

The human being tries to get the attention of the Universe, claiming "I exist!" , but the Universe does not seem to care about its insignificant existence, and feels that it has no obligation to this creature.