Slaughterhouse: Prayer

Slaughterhouse Five
Kurt Vonnegut

Throughout Slaughterhouse Five, religion goes by almost unnoticed by the average reader, yet there are many references which have significance beyond themselves. For example, Billy Pilgrim is described as appearing as though he was crucified while traveling in the train to the camp. Also, Vonnegut reminisces on a crucifix of the Messiah which hung in his room as a child. One of the most important religious references, however, is that of the serenity prayer.

The serenity prayer is found in two different locations in the book: the locket on the chest of Montana Wildhack and on a plaque in Billy's optometry office. The two locations are unrelated besides the fact that they both involve Billy Pilgrim. However, they do connect the reality of Billy's tangible and recognized life with that of the Tralfamadorian fantasy life. Also, it shows the significance of prayer in Billy's life because it is prevalent in two very important memories of his. "People would be surprised if they knew how much in this world was due to prayers" comments Vonnegut (Vonnegut, 195). This short quote helps to further suggest the significance of religion throughout the story, and it also suggests an expansion of this theme to the world beyond the book. By not limiting this insight to the book, Vonnegut reaches out to bring the themes of the book into the lives of its readers.