Alex is taking a creative writing class. In class he learned that some writers make surprising interesting or amusing contradictions in their work. Which literary device did learn about?

The literary device Alex learned about is likely oxymoron.

Here's why:

* Oxymoron is a figure of speech that combines two contradictory terms. This creates a surprising effect, often adding humor or irony to the writing.

Some examples of oxymorons include:

* Living dead

* Pretty ugly

* Deafening silence

The description of "surprising, interesting, or amusing contradictions" in the writing perfectly matches the definition and effect of an oxymoron.