Pathetic fallacy is a term used to ascribe human emotions to natural elements, most often the weather. The winter storm in “The Painted Door” is an example of pathetic fallacy. The storm has a temperament of its own and, in particular, takes on attributes of Ann’s emotional turmoil, intensifying the ominous mood of the story. The protagonist’s brooding thoughts are fed by the raging storm that keeps her isolated, creating narrative tension. When Ann is most conflicted and unsure, the storm crescendos, and when she tries to step outside, she feels like the storm is choking her. By the morning, when she reaches her emotional resolution about John, the storm has cleared.

Irony is when the expected outcome of a situation and reality do not match up. Sometimes, irony can be humorous, but in “The Painted Door,” its effect is bleak and tragic. The story’s ending utilizes situational irony as Ann’s epiphany that she loves John is juxtaposed with the revelation her husband is dead. Ann’s fear of being abandoned for one night becomes a realization that she faces the future alone.