Synopsis
The autobiography of a man who was born a twin to a sister—both of whom looked like neanderthals and were thought to be idiots. But they were very smart and even telepathic. The novel follows his life through the fall of civilization mainly due to changes in gravity.
History
First publication: Delacorte / Seymour Lawrence, October 1976
Review
Even though this has some science fiction themes, this is an absurdist fantasy. The style is light-hearted and satirical, but in a way that really brings out the main character. Otherwise it reads more like a tall tale. Vonnegut compares it to the comedy of Laurel and Hardy, hence the name Slapstick. But I don’t really get that sense myself. It draws upon events of Vonnegut’s own life, yet is too fantastical to say that it is autobiographical of the author. The themes are of lonliness and death. The main character devises a scheme to reduce the lonliness of the American people. I don’t take the scheme presented here too seriously, but he is right that treating people as strangers is what produces a lot of the lonliness. I would say there are some other important factors as well. This novel did not blow me away, but it was enjoyable to read and I think it does give you some interesting ideas to ponder. So yes, recommended, if you like satirical humor and a plot that is not really traditional or nicely wrapped up in the end.
