Slaughterhouse--Five

Slaughterhouse-Five
by Kurt Vonnegut

One of the most striking characteristics of this novel is how it opens with the description of the ending of the novel. By saying early on, "It ends like this: Poo-tee-weet?" Vonnegut is quick to establish a sense of inevitability in the novel. This concept of inevitable war, death and massacre makes me question if originality really matters in this novel. If the most horrific events in human history are going to occur regardless of human action, then what value can an original thought really hold?

What is the purpose of innovation and creativity if it will never put a scuff or roadblock on the predestined timeline of the world? If creativity cannot change lives, then what is its purpose? It holds true in my mind, that it must only be there for the less imperative, though equally appreciated, aspects of our persona. We create and chase after these original thoughts because we can. Because there is always a place for joy in life. If one is to believe that the events of their life are out of their control, then what is stopping them from being the most free and creative person they could imagine?

Perhaps this thought process of predestination and inevitability is really just trying to say that life is all set out, the world will be how the world will be, and sadly you have no place to change that. Endure, create and appreciate and perhaps you will be able to avoid pain.