"Cat’s Cradle" by Kurt Vonnegut

I've already reviewed a couple of his books, Slaughterhouse-Five and Breakfast of Champions, but in case you have forgotten about who Kurt Vonnegut was, it suffices to say that he is considered to be one of the world’s greatest literature titans. His works go beyond mundane stories as he seeks to explore concepts, philosophies and ideas through his unique and imaginative scenarios. If you haven’t checked out any of his works, I suggest you do so as fast as possible because you are really missing out on something incredible.

In any case, Cat’s Cradle, written in 1963, is considered by many to Kurt’s most ambitious novel as he went way beyond thinking outside the box. He invented new terms (which sadly, aren’t really used today) such as "granfalloon" and "wampeter". However, the impressive part is that he created an entirely new structured religion he dubbed Boskonism, which he then actually submitted as part of his papers for a Master’s Degree in anthropology.

In any case, rest assured that there is a story to this novel, and it revolves around Felix Hoenikker, a simple chemical student who is about to experience Kurt’s delightful madness. For starters, Felix doesn’t really have a conscience; he is more than happy with his job, which consist of coming up with new and dangerous chemicals, most, if not all of which are going to be used for warfare. 

Felix’s capabilities knew no bounds, which became apparent when he invented "Ice 9", a substance which can turn any liquid into ice, effectively destroying humanity. Fortunately, with there being some sane people around Felix, he was exiled to a remote island where the inhabitants follow the ways of Boskonism, putting their faith both in religion and technology.

Of course, Felix hasn’t forgotten what the received for his "exploits", and so he sets out on a journey to get the help of the island’s inhabitants. Help to do what? Get back to where he came from? Of course not. That would make too much sense. Instead, he enlists the help of a number of colorful characters to end the world, or at least destroy civilization.

Cat’s Cradle by Kurt Vonnegut (Book cover)
While the book can very well be read for the story alone, I’m sure you realize that it goes far beyond that. Kurt not only tries to expose what he believes to be the capabilities of human stupidity, but he also communicates his despair about the "civilized world". 

Even Boskonism, the religion he created, is upheld by the inhabitants of the island for one main reason: it absolves the of personal responsibility. To say more about it would be spoiling this masterpiece for you. Needless to say, there are many more themes and subjects explored here, but it would probably take a tome to explore them all.



Kurt Vonnegut (November 11, 1922 - April 11, 2007)

Kurt Vonnegut
(November 11, 1922 - April 11, 2007)


Kurt Vonnegut was an American writer, a great pioneer and titan of literature who managed to profoundly move people from all corners of the world. His satirical humor is something sacred uniqueness in the world of literature.

His most famous works include (but are not limited to) Cat's Cradle and Slaughterhouse-Five, and it should be mentioned that he was awarded a Purple Heart and a Prisoner of War Medal.



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