The inscription reads: "Here lies a great soul, who was loved by many, and will be missed forever."
The irony lies in the stark contrast between the beautiful sentiment and the reality of Ethan's life and death. He was a teenager who died of cancer.
Here's how the inscription is ironic:
* "Great soul": While Ethan was a good person, the inscription implies a grandeur and a legacy that a teenager who died prematurely might not have had the opportunity to achieve.
* "Loved by many": While Ethan likely was loved by his family and friends, the phrase suggests a broader impact on the world that wasn't possible due to his young death.
* "Will be missed forever": While it's true that Ethan would be missed by those who loved him, the phrase implies a permanence and lasting impact that is somewhat unrealistic given the circumstances.
The inscription serves as a reminder of the tragedy of a young life lost too soon and highlights the gap between idealization and reality in the face of death. It's a poignant and thought-provoking way to address the themes of loss and grief explored in the movie.