By: Kurt Vonnegut, Jr. (1922-2007)
"2 B R 0 2 B" and "The Big Trip Up Yonder" by Kurt Vonnegut Jr. are two short stories that showcase Vonnegut's signature wit and dark humor. In "2 B R 0 2 B", Vonnegut presents a dystopian world where overpopulation has led to a mandatory euthanasia program to control population levels. The story cleverly explores themes of death, sacrifice, and the value of individual life. On the other hand, "The Big Trip Up Yonder" takes a satirical look at the consequences of overpopulation and the pursuit of immortality. Vonnegut's sharp social commentary and clever twists make both stories thought-provoking and entertaining reads. Overall, these stories are a must-read for fans of Vonnegut or anyone interested in speculative fiction that challenges societal norms.Book Description: These two stories by Kurt Vonnegut were written over a decade apart but they are definitely connected. The Big Trip Up Yonder, published in Galaxy Science Fiction January 1954 is a comical yet scary description of what over population was going to do to society after aging was conquered and a simple daily dose of "anti-gerosone" would keep you forever the same age. Would Gramps EVER take 'That Big Trip Up Yonder', or would his hordes of descendants be stuck with him forever in a tiny apartment!? 2 B R 0 2 B, published in Worlds of If, January 1962 takes this basic situation many years into the future and a solution has been found. The population of the US has dropped from 80 billion to 40 million. Not what everyone would call a pretty solution, or the best solution, but nevertheless a solution to the population problem. I believe this is the type of story it is best to listen to, not describe, so enjoy.
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