I'll just cancel it later

link: https://theonion.com/forgetful-man-playing-fast-and-loose-with-free-trials/

In this local article produced by The Onion to criticize consumers' irrational behavior on subscription services, the irony of the text is revealed in its sardonic tone, which points out Ben Cameron’s delusional assumption that he is cleverly exploiting subscription-based free trials. Irony pervades the article as it contrasts Cameron’s misplaced confidence with the fact that he keeps forgetting to cancel his subscriptions, eventually becoming the very “sucker” he believes he can out smart. The application of hyperbolic epithets, such as describing his forgetfulness as having a “goldfish like memory,” emphasizes his cluelessness in a satirical, mocking way. The term “playing it fast and loose” is another example of sardonic language, presenting his irresponsible behavior as if it were bold and strategic moves. The lighthearted but stinging tone exposes the inherent flow within his own actions, portraying him more as an unwitting victim of his financial stupidity than as a shrewd consumer. Moreover, the article’s structure adds to the satire by first presenting Cameron’s reasoning as sound, only to systematically disassemble it with the harsh reality that he has, in fact, unwittingly paid for several services for months on end. The final line, where he is “baffled” to find recurring charges for AppleTV+, functions as a punchline that supports the satire’s central message, those who think they can outwit corporate systems tend to get caught up in their own arrogance. Through the clever use of ironic juxtapositions, epithets, and a sardonic tone, the article cleverly satirizes both personal irresponsibility and the illusion of “free” subscription trials.