In Kurt Vonnegut's "Report on the Barnhouse Effect," a prime example of irony occurs when Professor Barnhouse, who has developed the ability to control matter through thought, is assigned to investigate a war situation.
How to explain
His power is sought after by the military for its potential to alter the course of conflicts. The irony lies in the fact that Barnhouse, a pacifist and advocate against war, is the one bestowed with this incredible power, intending to prevent wars but inadvertently becoming a tool for military manipulation.
This situation highlights the contrast between his intentions and the unintended consequence of his power being used for the very thing he opposes, thereby creating an ironic twist in the narrative.