Kurt Vonnegut vs. the !&#*!@

Reply to Danny. Are you trying to tell me that the torture methods Saddam and his tyrants used against his own people have a relationship to the United States?  This has been going on for years and Saddam’s control has cost the lives of hundreds of thousands….again of his own and innocent people. These guys are ruthless tyrants. Find out what they have done to their star sports figures for losing an event, maybe you’ll understand.
Yes, your right, I shouldn’t criticize a quote, but he has no place to compare himself to the poor or criminal minded because he is neither of the two.

Posted by Carlos B. on Mar 21, 2003 at 1:28 PM

these comments above prove how many morons there are in the world… Get off KV’s nut, “oh thank you Kurt, you’re our mark twain kurt, oh kurt, your very existence makes the world revolve” What a bunch of wannabee intellectual ass kissers.. Try an opinion that’s your own. This guy isn’t saying anything pertinent or important and gets praised for it. wake up people.

Posted by Nick Drake on Mar 21, 2003 at 1:55 PM

Kurt, loved ya in “Back To School”!!!

Posted by kurt's biggest fan on Mar 21, 2003 at 2:14 PM

Too bad Dubya’s fellow C students defending him here have the same low regard for recent history lessons as their hero had for all his scholarship. They conveniently forget how Daddy Warbush issued an executive order strengthening relations with Iraq, then helped quash a Senate resolution condemning Saddam’s gassing of Iraqi Kurds. Can’t go bad-mouthing our “allies”, wouldn’t be prudent. Friends, when these right-wing morons ask how much we’d like being subjected to Saddam’s instruments of death, calmly reply, “About as much as I enjoyed selling them to him!”

Today’s history lesson, C students: “We do not have any defense treaties with Kuwait, and there are no special defense or security commitments to Kuwait.”

—Margaret Tutweiller, US State Department spokeswoman, 24th July 1990, nine days before Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait

Was this a set-up or what?

Posted by Tom on Mar 21, 2003 at 10:31 PM

i agree, but its not that simple.  There is more to the problem than the ‘insanity’ of a bunch of ‘cowboys’

Posted by A. Benson on Mar 22, 2003 at 8:10 AM

All of you war mongers seem to forget what country it was that helped Saddam, and what countries top officials were in bed with him (as far as their businesses go). Why dont you do some research about the past thirty years and maybe you’ll wake up.  Saddam may be an evil tyrant, but the U.S.A. certainly shares in the guilt of having put such an awful person in power. Not to mention the fact that the CIA contributed a great deal (training, weapons, etc) to assist Bin Laden and his friends just to beat the ‘godless communists.’  If you think this situation is cut and dry, you are sorely mistaken.  And if you think Bush has good intentions with this whole ‘liberation’ bullshit, you should look and see who stands to profit from this war.  I suggest going to salon.com and reading their article called “War Inc.”  Cheney’s Haliburton stands to gain by far the most.

Posted by Heather Rafter on Mar 22, 2003 at 9:29 AM

_Welcome to the Monkey House_ is a much too charitable description of the current administration.  If I thought GWB had an ounce of imagination in his Yalie-frat-boy mind, I would be overstimating his capacity for nuance.

I wonder if anyone recalls that the Tigris-Euphrates shared-deltas was the “cradle of civilization.”  I wonder if the term “Sumer” would tickle many cortexes; but I would never have wondered about things like that if not for Kurt Vonnegut’s writings.

Like Veblen, Ayres, and Liebhafsky before him, his shredding of the conventional wisdom has preserved the tradition of iconoclasm in the US.  (I suspect that L’il Jimmy Madison would’ve read “Foma, Wampeters, and Granfalloons” the night before he composed the Constitution.)

I’ll not rattle on about the night—after taking three “comps” in two days, that I managed to con a NY “operator” to put me through to him.  JW Red and Pall Mall regulars prevailed in that conversation on both ends in May, 1977.  My then-wife was shocked to learn that Kurt Vonnegut was Kilgore Trout’s alter ego and the Tralfamadore is only an instant away in the chrono-synclastic infidibulum… BtC

Posted by Bill the Cat on Mar 22, 2003 at 2:13 PM

I googled “Vonnegut and Iraq” because I still remember reading Slaughterhouse Five in High School and how it put the horror of war in WWII and Vietnam in perspective.  This interview should be in the major newspapers to help put the horror of the Blitz vs. Baghdad in perspective and to refocus the world on peace and sanity.  As someone who works at a College, there are many College students that would be interested in hearing these words in a face to face interview.  Please consider it, Mr. Vonnegut and thanks for speaking out.

Posted by Roseann on Mar 22, 2003 at 3:11 PM

your all fucks

Posted by mike on Mar 24, 2003 at 8:56 AM

I think we should just leave Saddam in power. He has a heart of gold and he’s right, Tony Blair and Bush should step down. In fact, Saddam should run all 3 countries because he is the greatest. George Bush is evil along with all americans. Americans should die.  9/11, what’s that? See, I’m against the war because the US is corrupt. It’s actually the US government’s fault why this is going on.  I totally support terrorists who plan on strapping themselves with expolsives and take to the subways… Americans provoked them so they deserve it.

Posted by Mr. Naive on Mar 24, 2003 at 9:07 AM

amen brotha,
these people are lucky I don’t come down to where they work and slap the dick out of their mouths

Posted by pro mike on Mar 24, 2003 at 9:12 AM

Kurt Vonnegut is an incredible writer with brilliant ideas- but was anyone else nauseated to see him in an ADVERTISEMENT- I believe it was for an suv..  I mean that is hypocrisy at its worst..

Posted by pk on Mar 24, 2003 at 10:46 AM

It’s amazing how easy it is to reduce everything to black and white.  You don’t like the Bush Administration’s policies?  Then you must love Saddam Hussein’s policies, because Bush is Good and Saddam is Evil.  You don’t want war?  Then you must hate America, because if you don’t want war, you hate our soldiers and want them to die.  Or something.

Do people like this even *think*?

Posted by Eric on Mar 24, 2003 at 4:13 PM

Bravo Mr. Vonnegut! I understand less than 20% of the voting age population in the US voted in the last Presidential election. If that is so then just over 10% of the population voted for George W. Bush! I think if more of you folks in the US got off your asses and took an interest in who’s running your country you wouldn’t have this damn war in the first place. Democracy is a privelege not a right! Fight for it damn you!

Posted by Robin Peat on Mar 24, 2003 at 6:25 PM

George W. Bush was a “C” student.  He’s an idiot.  Too bad being an idot isn’t grounds for impeachment.

Posted by Keith on Mar 25, 2003 at 9:43 PM

Hey Mike and your pro-Mike monkey,
Thank God there’s blind, ignorant, gullible people like yourself in this world. I can make lots of money off of these blind, lazy and unintelligent poeple like you and your parrot. I’ll hash out the same wars under the name of humanitarianism, when all I’m doing is just trying to get re-elected and establish a power base in the Middle East. I can sell you the same crappy TV and news shows with no original ideas. I can sell you voyeuristic jouralism and call it important news. Hell, I can sell stupid, blind and ignorant people like you ANYTHING. Like this fucking war. You bought it. What are you going to buy next? The Patriot Act amendments and all the infringements on freedom?
Oh, wait, shout, get mad, tell me to go to Iraq, call me some “dick” or “fuck” or some other clever name. Scream, shout, tell me to go to Iraq. See, I watch and I know your habits so I can predict your actions. More help in selling things to you.
No wonder this war is going on with people in this country like Mike and his pro-Mike guy just letting it happen. It’s been sold beautifully. But the smart people, Nelson Mandella, Jimmy Carter, the Pope, hey, most of Europe are smart enough not to swallow such shit.
Wake up or your life will be decided for you by corrupt leaders and journalists in the name of Democracy.
Bah Bah

Posted by neil on Mar 26, 2003 at 3:50 PM

Oh, and by the way, as long as this “war” is going on, I WILL NOT stand for the National Anthem.
I encourage all the rest of you who feel this country is being held hostage by an oil dictator to do the same.

Posted by neil on Mar 26, 2003 at 4:00 PM

Could someone please email me and explain what one’s GPA in college has to do with how they run a country.  I know what GPA reflects because I am an A student myself-the skills of good memorization, organization of ideas for papers, and quick problem solving (for those who study math, natural sciences, or engineering). 

What GPAs do not reflect, or what a college professors cannot teach you is wisdom and prudence.  These traits arise from how you deal with relationships with others and with yourself; from dealing with your own personal conflicts.  It does not come from traveling the world or how much knowledge you’ve acquired in the university.

President Bush’s recovery from alcoholism is one example of a very difficult conflict with which he had to struggle, and eventually triumphed.

I’d like someone to email me if they have descriptions of the past U.S. presidents’ performances in academia and how this reflected their performance as leaders of this country.

Posted by Mary Ellen on Mar 26, 2003 at 4:25 PM

I happened to “google” search Kurt Vonnegut today and I found this interview. And thank god I did. As a teenager in America it is very hard to imagine being at war and it doesn
t really seem like it has effected my life at all. And with that, it is extremely hard to truly think about what is going on in the world. I am ashamed to say that even though I realize the kind of things that I watch on TV, and the celebrities whose personal lives I cannot help but gossip about, that I am the epitome of everything I see is wrong with American teenagers. Thank you Mr. Vonnegut for completely changing my life. The first book that I read of Vonneguts was Cat’s Cradle- and it truly made me think. and a teenage girl thinking about anything but media fed crap is truly a rarity- and it scared me- and it’s about time someone did. Mr. Vonnegut keep writing because there are so few great men like you- and we need you to save us from ourselves.

Posted by Eileen on Mar 26, 2003 at 8:13 PM

Mary Ellen, that’s the only thing he’s overcome and that was probably because daddy put a boot up his ass because he was embarassing him.
Maybe you can clear this up. Is it not proof that a president who was a Rhodes Scholar had eight years of economic growth, peace in the middle east, a booming stock market and jobs aplenty. Then, a C student, AWOL national guard member and crack head gets in office, and a record surplus is wiped out, we’re in war, hated by the majority of the world and still don’t care, pissing off one of the few communist nations left and threatening to destroy the environment while thumbing our noses at everyone else. Yeah, there’s your proof of what a good student can do compared to a C student.
I’d rather have a man who can admit his wife is smarter than he is any day than some holier than thou despot sexist, racist president.

Posted by neil on Mar 26, 2003 at 11:21 PM

Right on!  As usual, Mr V. can cut right through the bullshit and get at the heart of things.
I have always applauded for the man who is not afraid to offend with his ideas.  Keep up the good work!!!!!

Posted by Michael on Mar 27, 2003 at 10:44 AM

Hi,
It seems to me that many of the fans of Vonnegut are missing many of his points. First, not to say that I know what he is thinking, but leaving out the patriotic side of KV is a huge oversight. I’d say there has got to be some reason he chooses to live in the US. Second, it seems to me that this planet was here long before we were, as KV says, and it’ll be here a lot longer than this arrogant race will be. What makes us so special to think we can do anything to end or save the earth, or the universe for that matter, any sooner or later than it was going to happen? Third, the whole PP thing. IMHO, KV as well as any great artist is psychopathic in some fashion. I have no problem with that. What’s wrong with having a nondiagnosed mental disorder? I am quite sure just about all of us, especially the ones that identify so closely with KV, fit that category. No, nevermind.  They are probably diagnosed. Fourth, placing value on grades is a joke. It doesn’t seem to me that schools have changed much from the formative tools that they have been since the industrial revolution. I have no idea why KV is placing so much emphasis on this issue. Maybe because it’s Harvard they judge your humanity in history class. I have no idea. I never graduated high school.
On a couple of the comments… the guy who wrote “get off Kurt’s nuts”, rock on. I am only marginally on his nuts, but it is clear he is not my savior. On most of the one-sided, US=Nazi, get your electric car, plastic is the devil, extremist stuff… sounds exactly like the PP type of deal that KV described in this intervew. How is it possible for some of you to be so one sided?
Oh ya… the SUV commercial thing. Awesome, doesn’t turn my stomach at all. Classic! I don’t know, was it Discover Card? Nissan? Who knows. Clearly, they must have had some greater non-assholish property for him to accept thier money. Discover… hmm that’s plastic… NO! The irony!
I guess I’ll stop now. Whatever got into me that casued me to type this is gone now. Thanks!

Posted by Just_Anger on Mar 27, 2003 at 8:20 PM

Kurt, is Lily single?

Posted by Fergal Cunningham on Mar 28, 2003 at 3:46 AM

I often wonder how it is we got here.  I think the answer can best be summed up in the words of George W. Bush himself:

“They misunderestimated me.”

Posted by Patrick Mullaly on Mar 28, 2003 at 7:25 AM

Mr. Vonnegut,

Thank you for saying it like it is. All this madness around us and we are asking ourselves and each other: “why?”. Well, as the alien said to Billy Pilgrim: “There is no *why*, it just is.” So, it is time we stopped asking redundant questions, and admitted - finally, truthfully - that we know the answer already. Admitted the horrifying prospect that we will be required to face (if luckily we survive) the next generation (if there is one) and answer their questions about how could we sit on our asses, apparently “shocked and awed” by a live war on realTV.

Posted by Samia on Mar 28, 2003 at 11:15 AM

God bless you Mr. Vonnegut !
The best regards by an italian boy

Posted by Francesco Maria Zaghini on Mar 28, 2003 at 1:41 PM

closed for the season

Posted by ikwhite on Mar 29, 2003 at 9:47 AM

I think this excellent comment from Mr. Vonnegut really sums up what we’ve managed to do over the past century “Human beings, past and present, have trashed the joint.”

If we don’t wake up soon and begin to ralise what’s really important, there won’t be much left for our children and grandchildren.

Posted by Ed King on Mar 29, 2003 at 11:44 AM

I was homeschooled as a child, which I guess means I lucked out. I never got programmed to blindly accept what was handed to me. I was an avid reader from the age of 5 or so, and I cut my teeth in Jr and Sr High school on Mr Vonnegut’s books. Player Piano and Hocus Pocus are among my favorites, and I still read them on a frequent basis.

Well, I’m in the Air Force now, stationed in South Korea. I’m staring down a nuclear barrel pointed right at me, and the attention of the country and even my fellow servicemembers is focused on a largely harmless camel-oriented nation in the Middle East. Anyone with enough sense to pour piss out of a boot with instructions on the heel can see that this war is a bad idea… so what are we doing it for again?

The real reasons are there, plain as day for anyone with an ounce of intelligence and a gram of initiative to see and learn for themselves. This kangaroo administration so recently relocated from Texas is after the oil fields of Iraq.

People refuse to see this. They do not believe that anyone could be so morally bankrupt as to sacrifice hundreds, thousands, and possibly even millions of lives, simply to satisfy his or her own greed. Would that I could live in such an idealistic world. It is psycopathic in the extreme, but its happening. And the American people have closed their eyes to this.

So what can we, the free-thinking people, do about it? Speak up! Let your voices be heard! Even if it has no real effect, do it for your own conscience! That way, when the administration, well on it’s way to forming into another Nazi regime, finally reveals itself as a tyranny and a dictatorship, we can say with pride that we were the only ones who fought it all the way. We will know that, even though we had to be dragged kicking and screaming to it, we did not surrender our freedoms lightly!

Well, I’ve rambled on long enough. If anybody emails me, I can give them some great links. Outside of that, I leave you with these words:
Peace is Patriotic!
No Liberation through Annihilation!
No Blood for Oil!

John

Posted by John N****** on Mar 30, 2003 at 3:39 AM

Mr Vonnegut, don

Posted by Luiz Britto on Mar 31, 2003 at 12:26 AM

Thanks for making me laugh in the face of adversity!  My question is: Do you foresee hidden landmines in the alignment of the U.S. religious establishment with the “global peace community” around the issue of Iraq and peace in the Middle East?

Posted by Lisa DiGiacomo on Mar 31, 2003 at 7:47 AM

For the record- he appeared in a Mastercard commercial and I don’t think the SUV had any particular role in the commercial. I personally found it hilarious

Posted by Eileen on Mar 31, 2003 at 6:23 PM

From what I have read about you Mr. Vonnegut, you weren’t exactly an A student yourself. Why should anyone care about your opinion when you’ve stated that you only enlisted in the Army because you were on the verge of flunking out of Cornell?

Posted by DJ Johnson on Apr 1, 2003 at 5:30 PM

Right on! Whenever I read Vonnegut I feel as though I am being represented. Living in Texas, my views are often scoffed. Being the only person in my family who is not right wing I am always under fire. Its good to know others feel like me. Vonnegut is so incredibly special to me for this. I think he is by far the coolest guy on earth. As an 18 year old growing up and trying to find my way in the world it can be so distressing to see the world as it is… thanks for speaking out

Posted by Lana on Apr 1, 2003 at 9:14 PM

A most chilling and apt description for the present American regime - invasion by body snatchers and Martians - let me add one more for those media lobotomised supporters of this war, those that watch Foxnews and actually believe it, those that see the mangled, bloody corpses of dead children being murdered by somewhat older shellshocked and scared teenager soldiers while the PP’s proclaim their bravery. I am ashamed of my government and I am in despair that the nation that to me embodied the best in the world has metamorphosed into a dread dark cloud that seeks to engulf all.

Posted by Harry B on Apr 2, 2003 at 2:40 AM

god bless you kurt
but do not be kind
america has too many D-students

Posted by redcircle on Apr 2, 2003 at 6:20 AM

Thank you, Mr. Vonnegut. You are the voice of humanity in these horrifying times.  I too watch in disbelief and feel like I have woken up in some parallel universe.

Posted by Dolores Ryser on Apr 2, 2003 at 7:01 AM

This is the exact kind of thing that has always made me want to hug this man.  Thank you once again for sharing and for letting us know we’re not alone.  God Bless You, Mr. Vonnegut.

Posted by Courtney Gale on Apr 2, 2003 at 7:55 AM

Extraordinary circumstances which feature extravagant evil, such as the Bush administration currently presents, scream out for unconventional opposition of unusual cleverness. Genius like yours is a weapon which must be deployed, even if circumstances make you feel like a Palestinian child throwing pebbles at an Israeli tank.

Posted by Frank DeVito on Apr 2, 2003 at 8:14 AM

Frodo has failed….Bush has the ring

Posted by B on Apr 2, 2003 at 9:24 AM

God Bless you Mr. Vonnegut.
For waking up every day and thinking your thoughts. I’ve heard so many versions of truth I beginning to think that people think it is a pair of shoes, find your own size, the one most comfortable. I enjoy the erudite statement that does not pander to criticism because it is fashionable, and one that has seen both sides of the story. Thanks for putting it out there man.

Posted by ashir on Apr 2, 2003 at 10:16 AM

As was stated earlier, the knee-jerk reactions posted here by servile disciples of Bush are riddled with bad syntax and spelling errors. I can’t say what that means for sure, but could it indicate that C students everywhere identify with thier leader, the champion of mediocrity?
Kurt Vonnegut is a sphere passing through the flatland of the these people’s one dimensional perceptions. Can we really fault them for not comprehending it?
It’s reassuring to see that so many of us exist on a higher evolutionary plane than the Puritan theocrats now running the show.
To all those who are now hysterically beating the Bush war drum, I say this: Why are you so upset? Aren’t you getting what you wanted? America is flexing it’s big dick…one that you’ve been itching to “whip out” for years, right?
I predict, however, that this time in history, and the legacy of Bush’s war, will be forever lamented as one of the biggest blunders of all time.
Those of us who view our plight, not as Americans, but humans, can already see September 11th as a collossal missed opportunity. How unfortunate we are to have had this person at the helm. Instead of a visionary who could focus our grief and sorrow to work for a better world, we have a scared, pea-brained simian, plunging us into a clan battle for which there is no possible victory.
Any advanced civilization looking down on us could only reach one conclusion: that we are a barbaric and primitve species.
Kurt Vonnegut, and many who have posted here, are evidence that some of us at least are aware of our plight, and wish to evolve.
And yes, Kurt, keep it up…and as long as it’s up, you may as well procreate.

Posted by Joe O'Brien on Apr 2, 2003 at 1:55 PM

Shine On Kurt Vonnegut…..——Never stop- (until you get to Heaven!)—-Judith/JUDE

Posted by Judith M Gardner on Apr 2, 2003 at 7:08 PM

Right on target ( excuse the expression). Thank you Mr. Vonnegut!

Posted by Phillip Crooks on Apr 2, 2003 at 7:29 PM

I am always delighted by Vonnegut’s clear vision of human behavior.  I thank you for this interview and wish millions more readers could enjoy it as I have.  As much as I am hating the political climate in this country,  I was able to smile while reading Vonnegut’s words.

Posted by Pam McGee on Apr 2, 2003 at 10:36 PM

My it feels good to read straight-out talk—and then to see all these comments.  Why do we let these cowboys cow us into debating this war and this new imperialism in their terms?  Thanks KV for this reminder; the emperor has no clothes, let’s be the loudmouthed kid who blurts it right out and won’t play along.

Posted by Pauline Benson on Apr 2, 2003 at 11:57 PM

If someone breaks into my house, steals everything I own, rapes my wife and kills my children; if I am still alive and can reach a gun that person will die. If I know in advance that they are coming and what they will do, They won’t even reach the steps of my house. period-end of sentence. How quickly the left forgets.

Posted by Jason on Apr 3, 2003 at 8:49 AM

Hewnry Winkler, a.k.a. “The Fonz” repeatedly raped fellow cast member Erin ? hundreds of times during the production of that series. She was 14 years old at the time, he 24. She spoke of this and her ensuing problems with drugs , alcohol and rehab on camera several years ago. Nothing has ever come of it. This despite the fact that Catholic priests are being rightfully thrown in prison decades after their child rape activities. Please publicize this injustice so that this scumbag can be brought to justice.

Posted by Jimmy Crack Corn on Apr 3, 2003 at 8:55 AM

Wow.

I can’t even begin to describe what I think about Kurt’s responses, but basically, they are rubbish.

He calls Christians white supremacists, which is not only entirely untrue and insulting, but is obviously misinformed.

He keeps ranking on President Bush for getting C’s at Yale. Well, at least he got into to Yale! That’s far better than 99.9% of people could do, including myself.

He rants about how the anti-war protests aren’t worth anything… maybe that’s because the majority of America is in support of the war? (at least that’s what dozens of polls from dozens of sources say)

Don’t get me wrong, this man is perfectly entitled to his opinion. But how this person could get so many supporters and followers is beyond me.

Posted by Mr. Waddles on Apr 3, 2003 at 2:30 PM

Hey, redneck Jason,
What the fuck does that have to do with this, you half-witt?
Iraq is not attacking us. If you ever did any READING, if you can read this word, you’ll know Bush knew far in advance that the Taliban was going to attack and he let it happen to bail out his miserable presidency. Then he said these things:

“The most important thing is for us to find Osama bin Laden. It is our number one priority and we will not rest until we find him.”
pResident George W. Bush, September 13, 2001

“I don’t know where he is. I have no idea and I really don’t care. It’s not that important. It’s not our priority.”
pResident George W. Bush, March 13, 2002

Hmm, #1 priority?

So now, he goes after a country that is in no way connected to 9-11 because all but one of the terrorists were Saudis.
Why is he doing this? For a pipeline to fuel the failed power plant in India that Enron had to bail on. And as a smoke screen for his backing of the Taliban, which in 1998 agreed to work with Enron to put a pipeline through Afghanistan, but when bin Laden was found to be behind serious terrorist strikes against the US, the Clinton White House sent missle strikes against him and it cut off all dealings.
The NSA (That’s National Security Agency, not NASCAR) had broken bin Laden’s encryption months before the attack.

And he’s doing it as a smokescreen. Those deaths and that blood is on his hands and on the hands of ignorant, right-wing, mouth-breathing, no-necks who go along with it.

We are the patriots, we are the ones with the moral cause. No one here is saying we’d never protect ourselves in a just cause.

Posted by neil on Apr 3, 2003 at 2:43 PM

Mr. Waddles,
You’re entitled to your opinion, too. But I don’t know what planet you are from if you believe that the majority of people in this country are for this war. What are your sources? Fox nazi news? MSKGBNBC? Have you read the posts here, have you seen the protests, have you watched a newscast that doesn’t involve some right-wing moron stating his pro-war opinion?
The reason why the world, Nelson Mandella, Jimmy Carter, the Pope and smart people of this country are against this war is because we see through the BS. Do some reading, instead of comparing how one man “could’t keep it in his pants”, against another man who’s destroying the political system as we know it. George Bush is the greatest threat to liberty the world knows. Mark my words, if people passively keep supporting that dimwit, they are just as guilty and deserve to be enslaved by his intolerant despotic regime.

Man, wake up people, for liberty’s sake

And if you want sources, I have plenty of them, and not ones you’d call commie or hippy or left-wing.

Best wishes to you all and I feel bad for going off on you in my previous post, Jason. Two wrongs don’t make a right. This illegal war so impassions me, but that’s no excuse.

Posted by neil on Apr 3, 2003 at 2:53 PM

This war is starting to remind me of one of Kurt’s books. There have been more British soldiers killed by American “friendly fire” than by the “axis of evil!” So it goes…

Posted by Tom Allen on Apr 3, 2003 at 6:38 PM

Thank you Kurt Vonnegut. For your books and your wisdom.

Posted by S Malik on Apr 3, 2003 at 10:16 PM

I am currently reading Vonnegut roman Bluebeard and checked what there is about K.V. in the net.

This interview is brilliant.

I wonder that the current US administration and Fox News would label me as anti-american because I oppose most things this US goverment has done, yet my bookself is filled with american fiction and Newspapers. And I have studied in the US.

This is a dilemma many foreign friends of american culture and people face - support the Bush co. fully or be labelled as “anti-american”.

Posted by Jaakko Haikonen on Apr 4, 2003 at 12:07 AM

Kurt,
I love you and your books.  Please continue to speak your mind, before you lose the right to freedon of speech.

Posted by Tobey VanRoon on Apr 4, 2003 at 10:04 AM

Mr. Vonnegut once again proves what a valuable and precious and gifted voice his is.  Thank you, Kurt, for speaking up from post-retirement.  We can all hope that Bill Maher and Dennis Miller read inthesetimes….

Posted by Johnny Meatworth on Apr 4, 2003 at 10:48 AM

Mr. Waddles -
Bush got into Yale as a legacy.  (Yet he opposes affirmative action…hmmm)  Not much of an accomplishment there.  I’ve even heard that he couldn’t have gotten into a lot of Texas universities.  Not so smart.

Thanks to Mr. Vonnegut for his wise and beautiful voice.  Despite what many people seem to be spouting these days, we need more of these people in our world or we will certainly fall into an even sorrier state.

Posted by angie on Apr 5, 2003 at 4:46 AM

“God Bless You, Mr. Vonnegut”!

Posted by CanuckAmok on Apr 5, 2003 at 12:14 PM

Right on the money. The man is a hero and a true genius. God bless the volunteer firemen!

Posted by The Dude on Apr 5, 2003 at 5:56 PM

Hey, right-wing morons! Here’s today’s history lesson: What do the poem on the Staute of Liberty, the song America the Beautiful and the Pledge of Allegiance all have in common? They were all written by lefties! Got anything to compare to that literature from your side? Hmm…maybe you’re the traitors!

Posted by Tom C. on Apr 5, 2003 at 10:58 PM

We have been trying to reach Mr. Vonnegut for some time to present him with a plaque showing that an asteroid has been named after him.  We have no desire (such as book signings) other than to honor him and his work.  I can be reached at this email or 520-287-7893.  Please respond.

Posted by Michael Schwartz on Apr 6, 2003 at 5:39 PM

It gives me joy to note that praise for this interview is many times longer than the interview itself, and that only a comparative few quarter-wits attacked Papa Kurt himself.  I won’t validate the pathetic existence of the latter by responding to their ignorant, insulting jingoism—-it looks like others have taken care of them well enough.  All I will suggest to the nay-sayers is this:  Dissent takes courage.  Patriotism is allegience to the United States Constitution and its prinicples, not to whatever yotz wins the popularity contest every four years.  With the prevalence of opportunistic right-wing, fear-mongering, hate-merchant demagogues like Limbaugh, O’Reilly and the Savage Weiner on the airwaves today, this interview isn’t much of threat to the Nazi aspirations of the Axis of Idiocy:  (Acting-President) Bush, Rumsfeld and Ashcroft.   

I will also take this opportunity to add my appreciation for Mr. Vonnegut to the heap.  KV has the credentials, the insight, the skill, and—-not least—-the balls to speak the truth.  He’s paid his dues and earned his laurels.  Salute, sir.       

A final word of advice to liberals on how to deal with conservatives:  try to be understanding.  Treat them as you would small children terrified of the boogeyman beneath their beds when the lights go out.  Because that appears to me to be the most distinguishing feature of the conservative:  fear.  They’re seemingly afraid of everything, from barbarian hordes to sex. 

Posted by Caesar Neron on Apr 6, 2003 at 7:35 PM

your interview with kurt vonnegut raised my spirits today.
Thanks/

Posted by Steve Dondlinger, M.D. on Apr 7, 2003 at 8:48 AM

hey K.v.
one more novel
BREAKFAST OF ASSHOLES
bring back kilgore trout to save the world from c’s and pp’s

Posted by diamon' on Apr 7, 2003 at 12:42 PM

Ting-A-Ling!  No one chose to be here.  Bush looks like his dad except he has a permenant smirk in his face.  I guess the real criminal is Bush#I for dropping Bush#II on the floor when he was a baby elf. No one chose to be here but now that we are here hopefully can keep it peacefull.

p.s. the pp is a neo/retro-cristian extremest.

Posted by Miguel Mexicano on Apr 7, 2003 at 2:06 PM

Hey Kurt-

Thanks for all the great stories.  It’s OK you’re not writing anymore—now I’m just reading all the others for a second time.

Anyway, the reason I’m writing is to let you know that Kilgore Trout is still alive and (somewhat) well.  His used book store is on Broadway in Albany right across from the State University building—which I think was railroad offices when you lived around here.  He’s quite old now and sometimes smells bad, but there’s still lots of pornography for sale among all the old books.  Just thought you might like to know.

Posted by Pat Mullaly on Apr 8, 2003 at 10:06 AM

Respect to Mr. Vonnegut, deep respect. He rang a bell in my mind with, “What has allowed so many PPs to rise so high in corporations, and now in government, is that they are so decisive. Unlike normal people, they are never filled with doubts, for the simple reason that they cannot care what happens next.”

A thought I’ve had many, many times. Decent people question their opinions and motivations before they act; pp’s do not. They are pre-emptively decisive, and derisive toward those who are not. As my pp Dad used to say, “Screw them before they can screw you,” and, “Those who can’t do, teach.”

You know, the idea of a psychopathic personality is manifest in a person who lives in a “hypomanic” state. Those familiar with bipolar (manic-depressive) disorder will recognize this term. It refers to a mood-state in which one feels energized, confident, productive, enthsuiastic ...but in an over-the-top way. Not full-on “manic” (headed for psychosis or other catastrophes), but over-energized, overconfident, arrogant, aggressive and wilfull, and most of all, heedless of the consequences of one’s actions. I think our current state of geopolitical affairs is the result of a collective pathology, a “hypomanic national character.”
“Sole Superpower”
“Regime Change”
“Axis of Evil”
“Fuck Him. We’re Taking Him Out.”

Hubris? Why yes. An apt description for the symptoms of hypomania.

Oh, and for the pro-war (anti-anti-war) mudslingers: You would be beneath contempt, except for the fact that it’s not your fault: You are propagandized tools of the Empire. Throw off your chains and rebel!

Posted by hoobler on Apr 8, 2003 at 11:12 AM

    an exerpt fromTony Parsons for the “Daily Mirror”... September 11, 2002

  There has always been a simmering resentment to the USA in this country
[England]; too loud, too rich, too full of themselves, and so much happier
than Europeans—but it has become an epidemic. And that seems incredible to
            me.

America is this country’s greatest friend and our staunchest ally. We are
  bonded to the US by culture, language and blood.  Exactly a year ago, thousands
of ordinary men, women and children were butchered by a small group of religious fanatics. Are we so
quick to betray these victims? What touched the heart about those who died
in the Twin Towers and on the planes, was that we recognized them. The
anti-American alliance is made up of self-loathing liberals who blame the
  Americans for every ill in the Third World, and conservatives suffering from
power-envy, bitter that the world’s only superpower can do what it likes
  without having to ask permission.
AMERICA could have turned
a large chunk of the world into a parking lot. That it didn’t is a sign of
  strength. When the news of
9/11 broke on the West Bank, those freedom-loving Palestinians were dancing
  in the street. We should thank the stars that America is the most powerful nation
in the world.
  How many democracies are there in the Middle East, or in the
Muslim world? You can count them on the fingers of one hand - assuming you
  haven’t had any chopped off for minor shoplifting. I love America, yet
America is hated. I guess that makes me Bush’s poodle. But I would rather be
          a dog in New York City than a Prince in Riyadh.
                      **********

Above all, America is hated because it is what every country wants to be,
  rich, free, strong, open, optimistic. Not ground down by the past, or
  religion, or some caste system. America is the best friend this country ever
had and we should start remembering that. Or do you really think the USA is
the root of all evil?  To our shame, George Bush gets a worse press than Saddam Hussein. Once we
were told that Saddam gassed the Kurds, tortured his own people and set up
                  rape-camps in Kuwait.

Remember… remember… September 11th. One of the greatest atrocities in
  human history was committed against America. No, do more than remember:

  NEVER FORGET!!!

Posted by Jason on Apr 8, 2003 at 12:46 PM

One last thing- I’ve noticed that every time anyone voices an opinion that is something other that an echo of Mr. Vonnegut’s, they’re immediately attacked by the “free thinking” liberals of the world. You’re all sheeple if you ask me.

Posted by Jason on Apr 8, 2003 at 12:51 PM

The problem with America today it that we are all afraid to stand up and say what we think. Most people simply follow the others, nodding and smiling. Anti-war protestors flock in groups. They cannot stand alone on their own to feet. It’s great to nod and smile agree, but it seems to me that all this agreeing had stifled our independent thought. And those with the thoughts are not bold enough to get thier thoughts out there.

On a similar note, Vonnegut is one of the few loud and bold people left who have thier own opinions and aren’t afraid to state them. May you always have the clarity of thought you have now.

Posted by Kristine on Apr 8, 2003 at 4:11 PM

Yeah! What she said!? ?

Hey jason, have you decided to set up shop here? I hope so, because if you leave, God knows, freedom and liberty will soon follow!
(that’s a joke, son)
(canned laughter)

So, “sheeple”: Was it talk-radio or one of those spittle-froth-dripping “news” outlets like Newsmax - it sounds positively Limbaughian - where DID you find this gem? And why is it that you guys (the assholes at every party) always have to trot out your litany of these “snigglets?” Do you think the rest of us - the non-indoctrinated, who don’t know all the bleats of the flock - can make sense of these things? “sheeple?” When did that gem enter the lexicon?

You know what all your “sheeple” mumbo-jumbo says to me, sonny: CRYPTO-FASCISM. Other kids, they got their Britney Spears posters (Farrah Fawcett, anyone?). But you, when you’re lying there alone at night, feeling a little sensual… who do you see when you look up at your bedroom wall? MUSSOLINI, that’s who! You, son, are looking good in brown!

Now, on the subject of forgetfulness (“NEVER FORGET”). What was that date you wanted us to remember? YOU are a MORON, you know that? I think I speak for everyone who has visited this page when I say, in answer to your inanities, “No, Duh!!!”  Only a feckless fool would post such tripe. Not a single one of us will ever, EVER forget what happened that day.

Now, consider this: approximately 3,000 innocent people perished in the 9-11 attacks. A terrible toll, a terrible crime. But, “one of the greatest atrocities in human history?” Not unless human history began some time after the day you opened your squinty little eyes, sonny. Ever heard of Hitler (~6,000,000)? Stalin (~20,000,000)? Pol Pot (~2,000,000)? Idi Amin(~500,000)? More to the point, do the names, “Hiroshima,” and, “Nagasaki,” ring a bell? 3,000, you say?

Just putting things in perspective for you, jason. Now, why don’t you go clean up your room, or build yourself a tree-fort, or whatever it is that good kids do these days, instead of getting the keyboard all spoogey and nasty. What Mr. Vonnegut has had to say about current events deserves better treatment than you can give, and I would trust his brand of patriotism over yours any day of the week.

Posted by hoobler on Apr 9, 2003 at 8:26 PM

So what’s the solution? It distresses me to see partisan bickering still. When will we realize that we all generally agree? We can let the world go to hell while we complain about it or we can get on the same level and work it out together. That, in my humble opinion, is what democracy is all about. Like it or not, we’re all in this together. Some people still need to know that.

Posted by an American on Apr 10, 2003 at 11:38 AM

American. I admit I’m partisan, often to a fault. At the same time, I admit that we all have most of the same interests at heart. Basic things; staying warm and fed, having a place to live in that isn’t toxic, getting along, finding soulmates, surviving. Since those needs justify most of our collective (but individual) striving, we do have much in common.

To expect humanity to somehow collectively abjure their pettiness and egomania is to smoke the pipe of dreams. It is a sweet vision. “Imagine all the people…” Imagine what it could be! But alas, it is too much to expect us all to act with one purpose. In this case, sheep seem to be the rhetorical choice, when in fact it should be rats in a crowded cage; they eat their young.

And your “Why can’t we all just get along” statement, if you look at it objectively, is an argument for complacency in the face of those who have other aspirations (usually dominance of some form). Passivity doesn’t cut it, withdrawal is surrender: Our collective welfare is suffering in the face of a ruthless, amoral assault.

In a partisan world, one must save impartiality for the future, and work against those who undermine our basic freedoms and human rights. Peace be upon you, but remember it isn’t a given these days. And remember where we are: You won’t see Mr. Vonnegut rolling over for anyone.

Posted by hoobler on Apr 11, 2003 at 6:50 AM

As a World War 2 veteran (Luzon), I am in complete agreement with Vonnegut.
I read most of his books, including Slaugher House 5, and would suggest it along, with “All Quiet on the Western Front”, be on all college reading lists today, assuming of course that professors have even heard of these classic anti-war works.
Military officers(experts?) lied to us during World War 2, they lied during Viet Nam and they continue to lie and mislead.
When will we ever learn?

Posted by Bob Raisor on Apr 11, 2003 at 4:08 PM

Thank You Kurt Vonnegut for your wonderful words that never fail to inspire, in times like these I think we all appreciate some one who just says what they feel and think about the situation, with out any underlining bullshite or alterior motives, in short thank you for your honesty.

Posted by Jen on Apr 12, 2003 at 6:57 PM

poor americans who aren’t idiots.there’s so many of you yet we only hear from the buffoons.mr.vonnegut is a champ!

Posted by andy on Apr 13, 2003 at 2:00 AM

Kurt, I used to think you had a great
plan in “Sirens of Titan” but now I realize that the only thing one can hope to unite on this planet, is a great big bunch of assholes. Thanks for many hours of pleasure. You Sir, are the worlds most important writer.

Posted by John Fritzel on Apr 13, 2003 at 7:39 PM

Thank you, again, Mr. Vonnegut.

As always, you make sense.

Posted by Andrew on Apr 14, 2003 at 7:29 PM

I agree that we have been the victims of many vicious lies during the World Wars and especially Viet Nam. Propaganda is becoming much more important as the world becomes populated by assholes. However, I can’t entirely agree that this is wrong. I will, however, say that if our government lies to us, they’d better do a damn good job of it so that we don’t find out. Mr. Vonnegut would have a right to be angry about the lies about Dresden, but Mr. Vonnegut is human like everyone else, sadly.

Posted by Danny on Apr 15, 2003 at 8:15 AM

The battle is over but the war is not won

My God-is there any hope left?

Posted by an American on Apr 15, 2003 at 9:23 AM

It is impossible to shake hands with a clenced fist.  -Ghandi-

That goes for you all-Think about it.

Posted by an American on Apr 15, 2003 at 10:04 AM

Boaz’s love of the harmoniums is all that anybody ever needs to say about anything. I never trusted Boaz until he met the harmoniums. He met those creatures and they showed him love. They showed him love and he showed them music.
I need to finish reading that damn book…

Posted by jam on Apr 18, 2003 at 12:14 AM

Live Long and prosper. Dear Mr. Vonnegut.

we need you.  still.

Posted by alwin on Apr 18, 2003 at 11:45 PM

Attaboy, Kurt.  Sure wish we could re-wind you for another 80 years.

Your banana-creme pie laser weapon of protest should be the model on which our anti-war millions change their ineffective ways.  It probably won’t work that way, but it should.  We just must learn how to listen to voices of experience and wisdom.  We’ve just got to lose this ego-driven me-me-me that helps keep us so dramatically divided.

Just checked Amazon for a price on Cleckley’s “Mask Of Sanity”.  $190.  Out of print and rare.  Too rich for my budget.  Library trip.

Posted by Stephen Neitzke on Apr 19, 2003 at 1:18 PM

Thank you
I was wondering what Kurt thought of these times.
Naturally it would be “unpatriotic” for a news channel to interview someone of his undeniable credibility and fearless opinion.

Posted by scott on Apr 20, 2003 at 2:37 PM

KILGORE TROUT FOR PRESIDENT!

Dear Kurt,
If only you were a self-centered careerist you might have been a politician and then we could have voted YOU into office!

Posted by richard rude on Apr 20, 2003 at 5:35 PM

Well done Mr. Vonnegut, I had to laugh like hell!

Fine Royal Astronomy indeed!

I’m so glad you haven’t checked into heaven yet. Time! Time!

Things that make me go “hmmmmm”:

- What’s so funny about peace, love, and understanding…..

...and why *can’t*  “christian americans” follow the guidance found in the Sermon on the Mount…

...and why is Gandhi so *hard* to spell?

Peace

Posted by Bob Armantrout on Apr 20, 2003 at 7:44 PM

Open your eyes!  This war was for humanity, not againist it.  Sure, some history was looted, some deaths were incurred, but come on!  This guy (Saddam) gassed his own people!  Did peaceful talks work with Hitler?  Let’s ask Russia…

Posted by Nicholas on Apr 22, 2003 at 1:03 AM

I watched a small insect crawl across my desk today….it was going ever so slow…..it was so beautiful….i could have put my finger on it…...but I didnt…...because it was beutiful!

Posted by Zebras In America on Apr 22, 2003 at 11:50 AM

Nicolas,
This was wasn’t for humanity—that would be a good reason, but no. And as far as those peaceful negotions and your comparing that with Hitler, here’s something:
This administration is using the same tactics used by Hitler: Pre-emptive strikes and occupation of Austria, then Poland. He convinced his people that both countries were viscious threats to the fatherland and that “peaceful negotions and reasoning” had been ignored, so the only recourse was to attack and change their government. He despised the Bolsheviks more than the Jews so the people were behind attacking Russia. “The Jews killed Christ” so the people were behind the persecution of Jews.

For Bush to have a war for humanitarian reasons, he’d have to be human first.

I hope everyone who believes this lying, deceitful and utterly evil pResident would open their eyes to the truth and have him and his gang thrown out.

Posted by neil on Apr 22, 2003 at 11:55 AM

A C- Student would be someone who generally gets C’s in school. (Like our President did).

Posted by Erin on Apr 22, 2003 at 12:15 PM

may God kill us all, one by one, tens by thousands, however God sees fit. when we are all dead, we won’t be around to care. thank God.

Posted by Ignorant Fool on Apr 22, 2003 at 1:29 PM

From my unpublished works called “POINTS TO PONDER IN A POINTLESS WORLD OF KNOW NOT!”  Over the last 15 or so years I’ve written much, mostly unpublished works, about war, crime, hatred, god and of course my pal satan.  After reading the interview with Mr. Vannegut I was moved to share a poem I wrote about my miraculous son.  Having had 17 sets of parents by the time I was a senior in high school, I am quite taken by my responsibility as a father, parent, husband.  Sometimes I am moved to write about how things affect me.

2/6/03 NOVIAN
You are the pupil in each eye
Determining the amount of light that gets in

You are the drum in each ear
Counting the beats of sound that get through

You are the spine in my back
Sending all messages to my brain

You are the throat in my neck
Feeding my stomach and lungs

You are the fingers on my hand
Holding gently all that is dear

You are the toes on my feet
Balancing my weary body

You are the pores in my skin
Cooling me down

You are the smile on my face
Bringing me joy and peace

You are… in essence…
You are… in fact… Me

John LeVan

NOTE:  Perhaps this is reason enough not to kill others.

Posted by John LeVan on Apr 23, 2003 at 6:08 AM

I met Kurt Vonnegut in the early 90’s, he autographed one of his novels for me, he drew a picture of his ass-hole in it.  I laugh every time I think about it.

Posted by Kyle Adair on Apr 23, 2003 at 12:30 PM

Like everything else I have read by the Greatest Author of Our Time, I am always filled with anxious laughter.  It is so great to hear the truth, even though it is hard for most people to hear.  I would love to be another ignorant drone who wakes up each day to salute a corrupt ‘democracy’ and smiles at the portraits of the swine in charge of all of this grief!  Such people seem to rapidly consume and digest whatever decomposing slop is thrust in front of them, spitting out only the bones and seeds of truth that occasionally leak through.  Kurt Vonnegut is a shining example of what it is to be free in a world devoid of freedom.  Even without a solid foundational belief in God, I would have to say God Bless You Kurt Vonnegut!  Thank you for giving hope, truth, and a glimpse into freedom!  If at all possible, I would like your insight into how a young girl in Colorado can save the world, or if that is not possible, how to slow the path of destruction we are steadily crawling along.

Posted by Bailie on Apr 24, 2003 at 10:28 AM

May Kurt Vonnegut live forever.

Posted by John Robb on Apr 26, 2003 at 8:11 AM

Wonderful comments from the greatest writer of our time…

Preach on brother!

Posted by Tyler Malone on Apr 27, 2003 at 3:35 PM

Thank you Kurt. Your words have always
expressed my amazement at what humans will do to each other.
For those who do not get it, I send you a small airtight bag of love.

Posted by Steve on Apr 29, 2003 at 8:55 AM

I love Mr. Vonnegut, which makes me really sad. So much venom, so much venomous accolades. Just throw Wolfowitz, Pearle and Israel into it and you’ve got the so familiar picture. Are you guys really pacifists? Or is it this attitude only reserved for Islamists, the Nazis of today? Iraq is not a Dresden of 1945. It is Nazi Germany of 1936. It was never meant to become Dresden. Give a C grade student an A mark for that one. That is if you can overcome the hate toward the hand which defends you and your right to speak out.

Talkin about a…holes. Draw it, Mr. Vonnegut. That one is on you.

Posted by Jakub Ciring on Apr 29, 2003 at 5:08 PM

I apologize for the shortcomings of my original entry. English is my third language and it shows significantly when I get emotional. And it is hard not to get emotional seeing my beloved author so dramatically parting his way with reality to a chorus of wild cheers from the other similarly inclined decadent devils. On a good day, I enjoy decadence as much as the next guy, or

Posted by Jakub Ciring on Apr 30, 2003 at 12:45 PM

I long ago concluded that the lunatics were running the asylum but I but I couldn’t put my finger on the why and how. I shall read Cleckley’s book. thanks for the suggestion.
p.s. R.E. Jakub’s comment: Saddam never threatened my right to speak out. The biggest threat to my right to speak out is the Cheney-Bush junta and those who support it.

Posted by Dave Young on Apr 30, 2003 at 12:46 PM

ok you bunch of nihilistic excuses for thinkers!  The fact is I love vonnegut, but twenty years from now I also hope. HOPE yes, remember the current events nearly 55 years ago NAZI GERMANY… on the verge of taking over the world. Let us look at today, our predicament bodes for a better future, and yet we complain and forget the past. HISTORY IS USELESS and please if we do go down dying go down with a smile, a smile symbolizing the pain of a hard life, and the strength it takes to use it positively.

Posted by David K on May 1, 2003 at 12:02 PM

Re. Dave Young.

Dave, thanks for your comment. I was born and spent first 30 years of my life living under Communist regime (sorry for pushing that “advantage”). If you think, that “Bush-Cheney junta” and I (“those who support them”) threaten your right to free speach, then, well, I hope you are not serious, otherwise…well… ehm…  I understand, that the tone of the current discussion is very unpleasant at times (and that both sides should take blame for that), but that’s not the reason to get paranoid.

With all due respect.

Posted by Jakub Ciring on May 1, 2003 at 4:56 PM

LIBERATE THE UNITED STATES! Show Bush the door in 2004. Not all Americans are afraid. The Bush bunch thrives on keeping the T.V junkies terrified. Turn the damn things off. Life is wonderful. Television is the new opiate of the people. Look at a viewer, slack-jawed, eyes glazed. Nice nod going. People will believe any crap that comes across the screen. Turn them off and free your mind. So it goes.

Posted by Mike on May 3, 2003 at 10:12 AM

This, as other publications of the interview rock my world!

The US government is uselessly killing people. And running it’s people and the land on which we live in down the porcelin peehole.  “So it goes.” Not in this case. All world powers come to their abrupt decent at somepoint. Perhaps this is ours. If it we’re up to me Id be moving to some not lead by PPS’s. Like France, who’s coming with me?

Posted by Brittany, 15 on May 3, 2003 at 5:03 PM

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Posted by fuck you ass hole on May 4, 2003 at 9:43 PM

I just thought this was fricking awsome. Finally some one who agrees that you can not support the presedent and still be a patriot.

‘We have learned to destroy but not to build, how to kill not to cure and how to hate and not to love.’
  This is always been my motto, sad but true.

Posted by me on May 5, 2003 at 9:52 AM

I just thought this was fricking awsome. Finally some one who agrees that you can not support the presedent and still be a patriot.

‘We have learned to destroy but not to build, how to kill not to cure and how to hate and not to love.’
  This is always been my motto, sad but true.

Posted by me on May 5, 2003 at 9:52 AM

I just thought this was fricking awsome. Finally some one who agrees that you can not support the presedent and still be a patriot.

‘We have learned to destroy but not to build, how to kill not to cure and how to hate and not to love.’
  This is always been my motto, sad but true.

Posted by me on May 5, 2003 at 9:52 AM

I just thought this was fricking awsome. Finally some one who agrees that you can not support the presedent and still be a patriot.

‘We have learned to destroy but not to build, how to kill not to cure and how to hate and not to love.’
  This is always been my motto, sad but true.

Posted by me on May 5, 2003 at 9:52 AM

I just thought this was fricking awsome. Finally some one who agrees that you can not support the presedent and still be a patriot.

‘We have learned to destroy but not to build, how to kill not to cure and how to hate and not to love.’
  This is always been my motto, sad but true.

Posted by Ashley on May 5, 2003 at 9:54 AM

dear mr. “fuck you asshole”, i don’t think i quite got your message, what was it you were trying to say? anyway, the only way we’re going to see change here in the u.s. of a. is some sort of revolution. but even then we would have to hope for a leader who would accually put the people before his personal agenda (which is about a 1 in one million probability). it’s like frank herbert points out in the dune books, does power corrupt, or does power just attract the corruptable? refering to dune once again, we need a Leto II to set humans on a golden path. in out, peace (ha ha, peace?)

Posted by Ignorant Fool on May 5, 2003 at 11:08 AM

The USA still destroys. But much, much less than they used to. Close to as much as absolutely necessary. However, the USA helped to rebuild Germany and Japan. Never in all the history has the absolute winner been so,... so awesome. And our culture denies the right to hate to ourselves and to our enemies. That’s “why they hate us so much”. Because for them, the right to hate supercedes the right to exist. So it goes.

Posted by Jakub Ciring on May 5, 2003 at 4:00 PM

I think Mr. F.Y.A. is your typical Bush supporter. A little lacking in vocabulary, obviously scared shitless, and stupid. Not to worry though, after 6-10 brews and a few rounds of some dumbshit video game he will be a very couragous simpleton dipshit. Speaking of dipshits, how about that Bush stunt. Flying out to the Abe Lincoln on a Viking. Why didn’t he just wait for the Abe to moor and take Marine 1 out.? Why not Marine 1 to the location 39 miles off the coast? President AWOL was showboating. Can not wait for old one term to head back to Crawford. Yippie ty yi a get along little doggie just like your daddy you’re a loser in 04

Posted by Mike on May 5, 2003 at 6:49 PM

Right On!These bastards rule and 90% of humanity suffers.

Posted by Garry Davidson on May 6, 2003 at 9:03 AM

Mike, Mr. FYA might be your typical Bush hater. Your style is not that much different from Mr.FYA. As for you, Dave, if you suffer in Canada (next door to the USA “rulers”), then there is not much hope for you in the whole world.

Can’t we change the tone of our discurse? Probably not. Our “Idol” has set it, so it stays.

Posted by Jakub Ciring on May 6, 2003 at 9:37 AM

that does it. im moving to scotland.

Posted by nick petikas on May 6, 2003 at 12:27 PM

by the way kurt before you go could you please write a book about ninjas?

Posted by nick petikas on May 6, 2003 at 12:30 PM

Jakub, Easy for you to say, your tax dollars are not supporting Bushs oil war. He and his cronies are going to come out of this with billions. The american beersuckers will get their cheap gas. All on the backs of future Americans. Bush is a filthy liar. Where are these WMD’s. There was no threat from Iraq. Bush used 9/11 to terrify the american people into supporting a war he was scheming from the beginning of his term. He also uses his bullshit christianity the same way bin laden uses islam. To promote wholesale murder

Posted by Mike on May 6, 2003 at 6:32 PM

Mike, I sympathize with your plight as the US taxpayer. Even though, my taxes take larger part of my income than yours (and most of mine are also spent against my will), for the continental defense related matters I still rely mostly on your tax dollar. That

Posted by Jakub Ciring on May 8, 2003 at 4:55 PM

Well, the discussion hasn’t ended yet.  That’s cool I guess.  I am really happy that the war hasn’t turned out to be as death ridden as we all thought it would. 
Why does it seem people comment about how much money Bush is stealing and then claim to be learned, or better?  As long as I am eating, have a place to sleep and have a little spending money I honestly couldn’t care about how much money he’s stealing… that’s if he is.  Oh, I guess I would also like to swill some beer!  I am after all, American.  Feed me opiate, let me be happy, let me make what differences I can along the way.
It’s cool to see that people are passionate about things.  I guess it’s just my short-sightedness that makes it hard for me to be so passionate about things that don’t directly affect me.  I get worked up about the people that have problems that are close to me.
Question for ya’ll… Now this has nothing to do with war or Iraq… When is it okay to retaliate against someone that harms you or your well being?

Laters…
JA

Posted by Just Anger on May 9, 2003 at 3:05 AM

Reading an article like this from this great man makes me proud to be a Hoosier.  Kurt, you are the greatest!  An inspiration to those who are looking for answers in troubled, unsettling times.  If we, as the U.S., were lucky enough to have you for another 80 years, the world would be a better place.  Kilgore Trout lives!!!!

So it goes…

Posted by Todd Read on May 9, 2003 at 6:29 AM

Like one of Mr. Vonnegut’s readers above,
I first read Mr. Vonnegut’s novels at the age of 14.  Twenty-nine years later, I’m still stuck on certain massive “what kind of country is this” facts.  One of those facts is the firebombing of Dresden in WWII.  I think I’ll get a copy of Mr. Vonnegut’s “Slaughterhouse Five” and read it this weekend; after all, it affected my conscience for life.

Posted by Gerald P. Cunningham on May 9, 2003 at 4:56 PM

Jakub, I think you have misunderstood my position. I do not grieve Saddam. My gripe is with themeans used to achieve what ends? You see Jakub, I am sick and tired of seeing my brother Marines die in this manner. I served 16 years in the Corps. I saw duty in the middle east from 1979-1984. I know all to well what makes that part of our world tick. The young men of that region suffer from a sense of hopelesness and humiliation that many north americans cannot fathom. These things can unite a group of young men in a manner that seems insane to someone who has not felt it.  My training gives me a good idea of what motivates this guys. We were Marines. We were brothers, and no sacrifice is to great in the defense and support of my brothers. Truthfully, we did not defend the freedoms of our fellow americans, we did not fight for democracy, the constitution,mom or apple pie. We looked out for each other. Plain and simple. I look back on my service and see nothing but wasted lives. Good men who died for bullshit political reasons. Sticking a flag on your lapel is easy. Try sticking a mans bowels back in his abdomen while he tries not to make any noise that might give away your position. Than you get an idea of hoplessness. Our best defense against this “new enemy” is not fear. Our best weapon to fight this enemy is respect. The racial slurs I see everywhere indicate fear. To allow these feelings to rule our lives is to assist the terrorists. Only respect can win this conflict. These young Arabs are united in the same manner that my brothers were united. To them, no sacrifice is to great in the defense of their brothers. To a lot of people, this seems insane. I, however, have seen hopelessness and depair. We were brothers and showed no fear. I will not surrender to fear now. Victory over this “new enemy” is only possible through respect

Posted by Mike on May 9, 2003 at 8:03 PM

Mike, did Daniel Pearl die because he didn’t have enough respect for his captors, or because he was motivated by too much of it and went dangerously out of his way “to understand”? (My e-mail is .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address))

Posted by Jakub Ciring on May 12, 2003 at 3:09 PM

Just Anger,

Why are you posting here? Have you read any Vonnegut? Player Piano. What happened to the society with the people who had a place to live, food to eat and a little spending money?

Go do your homework.

Posted by Just Kurt on May 13, 2003 at 1:12 PM

Jakub, The only thing I know about Mr Pearls’ death was that it was caused by tramatic amputation of his head. As to his motivations, I am clueless. He was a journalist who chose to work in a less then stable environment. I am not sure that I quite understand the question.

Posted by Mike on May 13, 2003 at 7:52 PM

Great interview!  Love all of Vonnegut’s stuff.
For “Just Anger”, I want to ask you: what have the people of Iraq or Saddam done to you?

Keep up the work, Vonnegut.  Maybe some day we’ll all have flippers, and won’t be able to fight.
peace and God Bless

Posted by Peter on May 13, 2003 at 9:45 PM

The only problem with what the goodman Vonnegut says is that it is simply too intelligent.  That is to say, a bit too logical for your average C-student Yale graduate. 

But—
If there were a way to convey such perfect logic as shown here to such illogical people that represent the US of A, i’m sure Mr. Kurt would be the one to break the barrier.

BOYCOTT FREEDOM FRIES!

Posted by Sludge Bucket on May 14, 2003 at 10:40 AM

Thanks again Mr. Vonnegut from A long-time admirer of your work. Do the world a favor and continue writing. We need you more than ever.  PEACE!!

Posted by GUY FALGOUT on May 14, 2003 at 1:17 PM

Mike,

Mr. Pearl quite obviously respected and trusted the guys he intended to interview to gain understanding of their cause. Unfortunately, his attitude was not reciprocated.

As opposed to proponents of respect and understanding toward our enemies (“why do they hate us so much?”), I avoid any kind of relations with the people, who deny my right to exist, because my right to exist is not negotiable. And if my right to exist is directly challenged, I have no choice, but to challenge back. With all due respect… that is next to none. It’s easier that way.

Posted by Jakub Ciring on May 15, 2003 at 12:43 PM

GREAT. It is refreshing to hear someone speak the truth. Kilgore Trout would be proud.

Posted by Richard E. Mapes on May 18, 2003 at 5:54 PM

Once again I will walk away from my desk with a smile on my face and a glitter in my eyes, wondering where in the world I’d be without Mr. Kurt Vonnegut Jr…well, for what its worth, I can tell you: I’d be in the exact same place, far more worried, far less inspired, and devoid of my greatest literary and human hero…I’d be a raging, 23 year old, schizophrenic bump on a log, writing stories and songs with a little less reason to smile and a little less glitter in my eyes. “Thank you for your attention!”

Posted by Jason Bruno on May 21, 2003 at 2:12 PM

Go! Yes go screaming in despair and failure that you unendingly espouse, dragged by demons into the hell you have so correctly identified as your afterlife destination.! and Go SOON!

You continue your career of oreaching defeatism, and depression to the fools that consider your eloquence at it, as some kind of mark of human “excellence”, when in fact your works are nothing more than the encouragement of the loss of hope that one must acheive to nter hell.

What is truly amazing is there isn’t documented proof of the spike in suicides by those students who are forced to read your ethics and morals warping trash called “literature”.

Posted by Hari Seldon on May 22, 2003 at 11:05 AM

Dear “I”:
Bush is a “C-Student”.

Posted by Christopher on May 22, 2003 at 7:38 PM

As always, Kurt Vonnegut has yet again spoken the mind of us few intelligent people left on this planet.  If only we could do more to educate the masses, then our world be a better place.  Thank you, Mr. Vonnegut.

Posted by J.S. Mills on May 24, 2003 at 5:34 PM

Chris; if you are reading this: I told you he was a genious!

Posted by Diane on May 24, 2003 at 7:47 PM

Kurt Vonnegut found my lost love of reading and now I am proud to say I am a Vonegut junkie.  I suppose even more after reading this article.  There’s always room for Jello.

Posted by Annabella Rain on May 25, 2003 at 4:43 PM

Kurt Vonnegut is my hero. I am reading Timequake for about the third time, so that I can remember the whole thing, and quote Vonnegut at appropriate times to my mostly right-wing family. (ow they got that way is anybody’s guess. We had the same parents, but anyway.) I just love Kurt Vonnegut, have since my college days. I hope he lives forever!!! You go, Junior!

Posted by Joyce Parks on May 25, 2003 at 7:22 PM

Kurt Vonnegut is a golden god

Posted by G. Krieger on May 27, 2003 at 7:38 AM

Mr. Vonnegut, truly a brilliant and elegant writer is the definition of wisdom for many.  I am part of an organization: www.procasino.org that has protested the war on Irak by Bush and the war on our community by Costco.
Long live intelligence, sensitivity and Kurt Vonnegu.

Posted by Jaime Lagunez on May 27, 2003 at 10:55 AM

Speaking from the 51st State I am deeply confused by the attitude of this so-called Vonnegut. Not only does he deride the wisdom of our humble President but he also accuses him of a coup d

Posted by Andy Mackenzie on May 27, 2003 at 7:40 PM

this man is a genius, respect kurt vonnegut, so glad i found you.

Posted by paul adams on May 28, 2003 at 6:05 AM

Kurt Vonnegut is my hero

Posted by Beth on May 28, 2003 at 3:13 PM

Thank you again for the sanity, Kurt.
Every day that the President of the United States prays again to God for guidance while deciding where to drop additional munitions without concern for the first comandment of his own purported religion is one more day that wold have flabbergasted even Camus. Nazisim crept upon the German people in the language of Chirstianity twisted into semi-beliveable hatred for Jews and others. The same horriffic psudo-religious hate and control from Bush / Ashcroft and Co. is wrecking our people now, tearing into our freedoms (row v wade, miranda, etc.) and literally killing thousands overseas. These political priests of intolerance, hate, money, power and control will never be sated. There god is the only god and you damn well better serve them or feel the wrath. These people have usurped the will, might, money and purpose of the United States of America. They are hurting millions and we need to get these assholes out of office. RFK Junior seems to have an intellectual handle on the situation in regard to the fact that every resume currently surrounding the president and including the president is up to it’s ass in oil. So far he (RFK) has my vote as an electible candidate. Any other ideas?

With most sincerity,

Nathan C Blacknon

PS Not to mention the other millions of sentinent, feeling creatures on the planet that are about to be killed or starved out of a habitat by these all-consuming assholes in order to continue our current suck on the planet’s immediately combustible and corporately / politically owned energy sources.

Posted by Nathan C Blackmon on May 31, 2003 at 5:21 AM

Congratulations, KV, on another great outburst of sanity. And thanks for all the others.

What worries me now is the fact that American military supremacy has reached a point where the reasons for ending the war in Vietnam are unlikely to be repeated: America doesn’t look like it could lose a war now, Americans don’t get killed in significant numbers. If it had been that way in Vietnam, America would have just carried on killing.

So the only avenues of resistance to American foreign policy objectives are terrorism or the boycott of American goods and services.

Maybe if enough Americans get poor while more mad people fly planes into their big buildings, they’ll start taking an interest in what their governments do to other countries.

Meanwhile, long may KV rant, and I’ll hope that more and more Americans listen carefully to him when he does!

Posted by Kilmore Trout on May 31, 2003 at 7:02 AM

Good for you printing this story!

And good for Kurt!  Still sane after all these years.

And all the people who are responding positively!  It’s good to see that there are more and more of us willing to speak out and say “the emperor has no clothes.”

Posted by Clyo Beck on May 31, 2003 at 8:58 AM

Good for you printing this story!

And good for Kurt—still sane after all these years.

And it’s great to see all the positive comments; that more and more of us are willing to speak out and say:  “The emperor has no clothes.”

Posted by Clyo Beck on May 31, 2003 at 9:00 AM

Kurt Vonnegut a most excellent fiction writer.
An even better writer of the truth!
I immediatly added a link from my site, The Other George W. to this interview.
Thank you for telling the truth so well.

Posted by George W Baltzell on Jun 1, 2003 at 6:16 PM

What can I say that hasn’t been said about Kurt Vonnegut when he writes or when he talks? Mostly I laugh my ass off. Like, I LOVE SLAUGHTER HOUSE FIVE!!!! His style is AMAZING. I love the line about bannana cream pie. It was great. I could go on forever, but I’ve decided everyone who visited this site probably visited it because they can agree with me when I say I LOVE KURT VONNEGUT!!!

Posted by Andrea on Jun 3, 2003 at 5:31 PM