What we will be seeking ... for the rest of our lives will be large, stable communities of like-minded people, which is to say relatives. They no longer exist. The lack of them is not only the main cause, but probably the only cause of our shapeless discontent in the midst of such prosperity.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- People crave close communities but they are missing, causing unhappiness despite wealth.
- In plain terms
- We miss having families and tribes to belong to.
- What can you take from it?
- Community is vital for happiness even if money is available.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What makes you feel connected?
- Is money enough for happiness?
Another view
Prosperity does not always cause discontent.
More from Kurt Vonnegut
'That was the strength of the Nazis,' she said. 'They understood God better than anyone. They knew how to make him stay away.'
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