Kurt Vonnegut's Fractal Essay

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Fractal: A complex geometric pattern exhibiting self-similarity in that small details of its structure viewed at any scale repeat elements of the overall pattern.

Fractal (Alternate Definition): A complex set of objects exhibiting self-similarity in that small details of relationships viewed at any scale repeat throughout the overall pattern, providing meaning to the objects within.
Vonnegut’s Fractal: A perspective offered in Kurt Vonnegut’s The Sirens of Titan defining the meaning of life through exploring the interpersonal relationships developed within, composed of three forms:
Object to Upper: Object controlled by Upper. Object defines meaningfulness and meaninglessness of life through its service to Upper. Examples (found below): …show more content…
Objects define meaningfulness and meaninglessness of life through shared experiences. Examples (found below): Unk-Stony, Malachi-Beatrice

Love Crusade: Composed of: Selection of humans (Object) and God (Upper) Form of control: God is seen to have provided humanity with “the most wonderful spaceship in all creation” (27) and is able to determine the future of humanity. Meaning is found: Through following the “ten things to check” in order to receive a “trip to the Kingdom of Heaven,” (29) providing a world of infinite wonders in the afterlife.
Salo-Tralfamadorians:
Composed of: Salo (Object) and Mysterious Power (Upper) Form of control: Salo is “like all Tralfamadorians, a machine” and thus innately has no free will. He is only able to follow instructions given to him (275). Meaning is found: When meaning is lost. After Salo exposes his “little message from Tralfamadore,” he realizes that he has no more meaning in life and simply kills himself (306).
Boaz-Harmonium:
Composed of: Boaz (Object) and Harmoniums- Insect creatures from Mercury (Lower) Form of control: Boaz takes care of his harmoniums, giving them food and

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