The Fallacy of Success

A paradox is an apparent contradiction or incompatibility between two things or ideas with an underlying resolution. Paradoxes challenge reason but can also be avenues to new insights and perspectives. Chesterton, the so-called “Prince of Paradox,” often uses paradox to surprise and intrigue readers and to provoke them to search for an underlying truth. For example, Chesterton states that “there is no such thing as Success. Or, if you like to put it so, there is nothing that is not successful” (1). It is not immediately obvious how everything can be successful if success does not even exist. The paradox holds readers in tension until they realize that something that is universal lacks distinction, which makes it insubstantial.

Tone is the representation of an author’s attitude toward a topic and toward readers through style, word choice, and more. “The Fallacy of Success” showcases Chesterton’s distinct tone. He is derisive toward his subject—books on success. Chesterton uses diction to denigrate these books—he uses such adjectives as “silly,” “dull,” “queer,” “strange,” and “absurd.” He takes delight in mocking these books, but he avoids sourness or preachiness by inviting readers to participate in his fun.