Kurt Vonnegut (1922-2007)

Kurt Vonnegut has passed away at the age of 84. According to a New York Times report, Mr.Vonnegut suffered brain injuries as a result of a fall several weeks ago.

He was born in 1922 and published his first novel in 1950. He was best known for his darkly humorous and deeply moral novels which melded science fiction themes and satire to communicate and explore ideas about the human condition.

His most classic books included Slaughterhouse-Five and Breakfast of Champions and his short stories included notable dystopian fiction like Harrison Bergeron. Not just a writer, Vonnegut fought in World War II, and his experiences there shaped his many war themed novels, like Slaughterhouse Five in which thousands of civilians were firebombed in Dresden, Germany.

His final published book was 2006's A Man Without a Country.



deepest condolences to his family, friends and anyone touched by his unique insight.

i can recall visiting Vonnegut's Hardware Store in Indy when i was little, not knowing who Kurt was. Years later, pouring over those great novels- "Breakfast of Champions", "Cat's Cradle", "Sirens of Titan", "Slapstick", etc. *sigh* Those books had a rhythm to them. A heartfelt pulse that brought me light in dark days. Vonnegut & Richard Brautigan were the best writers of my times and now they're both gone. Vonnegut was the Mark Twain of counter culture novels and damn if he didn't look a like like Twain. RIP KV, you will be missed.

I was shocked to hear of it this morning. His writing was something that can never be taught or sold or manufactured.

You were one in a million Kurt. And you'll be missed.