'Cat's Cradle' is a satirical novel that explores the absurdities of modern technology and religion through the perspective of Jonah, a writer on a quest to document the creation of 'Ice-Nine'—a substance with the potential to freeze the world. As he uncovers the chilling secrets behind this dangerous invention, Jonah encounters a cast of quirky characters, including the enigmatic scientist Dr. Felix Hoenikker and the eccentric cult leader, the Church of God the Whole Event. Vonnegut's sharp wit and dark humor highlight the moral dilemmas of scientific advancement and the existential questions of human existence. With a blend of science fiction and philosophical inquiry, the novel challenges readers to contemplate the impact of their actions on humanity and the planet. Will Jonah uncover the truth before it's too late, or will he become yet another casualty of a world spiraling into chaos?
By Kurt Vonnegut
Published: 1998
""We are what we pretend to be, so we must be careful about what we pretend to be.""
“A free-wheeling vehicle . . . an unforgettable ride!”—The New York Times 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. “[Vonnegut is] an unimitative and inimitable social satirist.”—Harper’s Magazine “Our finest black-humorist . . . We laugh in self-defense.”—Atlantic Monthly
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“"We are what we pretend to be, so we must be careful about what we pretend to be."”
Cat's Cradle
By Kurt Vonnegut
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Kurt Vonnegut (1922-2007) was an acclaimed American novelist, satirist, and graphic artist renowned for his unique blend of dark humor and science fiction. His notable works include 'Slaughterhouse-Five', 'Cat's Cradle', and 'Breakfast of Champions', where he expertly wove elements of absurdity and social criticism into narratives that explored the complexities of human existence. Vonnegut's distinctive writing style, characterized by simple language, creative narratives, and philosophical underpinnings, often reflected his deep concerns about war, technology, and the human condition. His influence extends beyond literature, making him a key figure in American culture.
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