Vonnegut's Cat's Cradle Discussion

 

Vonnegut’s work is often considered to exemplify “black humor” or gallows humor (humor that is morbid and grotesque that reflects the  tragic absurdities of life and death). As we read Cat’s Cradle, we find ourselves laughing at the tragic absurdities found within the apocalyptic society and the inevitable destruction. What passages or scenes do you find humorous? And how does this humor work in relationship to the novel's attitude toward science?

Vonnegut Remembered for His Black Humor

Cat's Cradle and Science

Vonnegut's Use of Black Humor

More about Black Humor 
 



 

Welcome to the Book Club! This month's book is Vonnegut's Cat's Cradle!

"Cat’s Cradle is Kurt Vonnegut’s satirical commentary on modern man and his madness. An apocalyptic tale of this planet’s ultimate fate, it features a midget as the protagonist, a complete, original theology created by a calypso singer, and a vision of the future that is at once blackly fatalistic and hilariously funny. A book that left an indelible mark on an entire generation of readers, Cat’s Cradle is one of the twentieth century’s most important works—and Vonnegut at his very best" (Amazon.com's review).

In June, feel free to visit the blog and post your response to the book!