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Questions and Answers
Who is talking about their time in the war and surviving Dresden?
Who is talking about their time in the war and surviving Dresden?
Kurt Vonnegut
When Vonnegut goes back to Dresden in 1967, what does he say it looks like?
When Vonnegut goes back to Dresden in 1967, what does he say it looks like?
Dayton, Ohio but with more open spaces
Who did Vonnegut go back to Dresden with?
Who did Vonnegut go back to Dresden with?
Bernard V. O'Hare
What was the name of the cab driver that took them to the slaughterhouse?
What was the name of the cab driver that took them to the slaughterhouse?
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What kind of cigarettes does Vonnegut smoke?
What kind of cigarettes does Vonnegut smoke?
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Who is Yon Yonson and where is he from?
Who is Yon Yonson and where is he from?
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What does the movie maker Harrison Starr say that Vonnegut should write about instead of an anti-war book?
What does the movie maker Harrison Starr say that Vonnegut should write about instead of an anti-war book?
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What does Vonnegut tell O'Hare the climax of the book should be about?
What does Vonnegut tell O'Hare the climax of the book should be about?
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Vonnegut makes his best story outline of Dresden on the back of what?
Vonnegut makes his best story outline of Dresden on the back of what?
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What were the rescued soldiers fed to fatten them up when they were saved and brought to France?
What were the rescued soldiers fed to fatten them up when they were saved and brought to France?
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What is the name of Vonnegut's dog?
What is the name of Vonnegut's dog?
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What does Vonnegut like to do late at night after his wife goes to bed?
What does Vonnegut like to do late at night after his wife goes to bed?
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Where did Vonnegut go to school?
Where did Vonnegut go to school?
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What did Vonnegut's father say to him right before he died?
What did Vonnegut's father say to him right before he died?
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What was Vonnegut's job after college?
What was Vonnegut's job after college?
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How did the veteran die in the elevator?
How did the veteran die in the elevator?
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Who does Vonnegut dedicate this book to?
Who does Vonnegut dedicate this book to?
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Why was Mary O'Hare mad at Vonnegut when he came to visit her husband?
Why was Mary O'Hare mad at Vonnegut when he came to visit her husband?
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What does Vonnegut promise Mary?
What does Vonnegut promise Mary?
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What does Vonnegut tell Mary he might name the book?
What does Vonnegut tell Mary he might name the book?
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What does Vonnegut tell his publisher about what happens after a massacre?
What does Vonnegut tell his publisher about what happens after a massacre?
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How does Vonnegut say the book starts and ends?
How does Vonnegut say the book starts and ends?
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Study Notes
Chapter Insights
- Kurt Vonnegut narrates in first person, reflecting on his wartime experiences in Dresden.
- The book explores the absurdities of war through personal anecdotes and reflections.
Return to Dresden
- Vonnegut revisits Dresden in 1967, comparing its appearance to Dayton, Ohio, but noting its increased open spaces.
- Accompanied by Bernard V. O'Hare, a former combat mate and fellow prisoner of war, during the visit.
Key Characters and Anecdotes
- The cab driver who transports them to the slaughterhouse is named Gerhard Muller.
- Vonnegut’s cigarette of choice is Pall Malls, highlighting a personal quirk.
- He recalls a song about "Yon Yonson" that symbolizes his life's narrative.
Literary Commentary
- Filmmaker Harrison Starr suggests Vonnegut swap themes from an anti-war narrative to an "anti-glacier" book, emphasizing the futility of conflict.
- The climax is proposed by Vonnegut to involve Edgar Derby being executed for stealing a teapot, underscoring the absurdity of war.
Writing Process
- Vonnegut sketches his primary story outline of Dresden on a roll of wallpaper, indicating the chaotic beginnings of his writing process.
- He mentions that rescued soldiers were fed rich foods like chocolate malted milkshakes to regain their health.
Personal Details
- Vonnegut's dog is named Sandy, presenting a glimpse into his personal life.
- Late-night habits include calling operators to reconnect with past acquaintances.
- He studied Anthropology at the University of Chicago before his journalism career.
Family and Career
- His father’s final words advise against writing villainous characters, suggesting Vonnegut’s complex views on morality.
- He worked as a police reporter after college, shaping his observational and narrative skills.
Tragic Events
- A veteran faced a fatal accident in an elevator when his wedding ring became caught, leading to his death.
Dedication and Promise
- The book is dedicated to Mary O'Hare and Gerhard Muller, depicting significant figures in Vonnegut's life.
- Mary O'Hare initially believes Vonnegut will write a pro-war book, prompting her anger during his visit.
- Vonnegut reassures her he will not produce a pro-war narrative, solidifying his stance against war themes.
Title and Themes
- Vonnegut contemplates naming the book "The Children's Crusade," indicating a focus on innocent victims of conflict.
- He articulates to his publisher that, after a massacre, "everything is quiet except for the birds," with the phrase "poo-tee-weet" used to symbolize this silence.
Book Structure
- The narrative begins with "Listen, Billy Pilgrim has come unstuck in time," setting the tone for the nonlinear storytelling.
- It concludes with "Poo-tee-weet," reinforcing the cyclical and absurd nature of the experiences detailed throughout the text.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
Test your knowledge on Chapter 1 of 'Slaughterhouse Five' by Kurt Vonnegut. These flashcards cover key points about the narrative, the author's experiences during the war, and his return to Dresden. Perfect for students looking to reinforce their understanding of this classic novel.
