In the book John (the narrator) researches the background for his book on the atomic bomb. He becomes fascinated by Dr. Felix Hoenikker (creator of the atom bomb). Ironically the atomic bomb isn't Hoenikker's most devastating creation, he synthesized "Ice-Nine" to work on the problem of getting soldiers out of the mud. Ice-Nine freezes the water so soldiers can lift themselves out of the mud, but the freezing action will continue until every bit of water on earth is turned into solid ice.
When Hoenikker died Ice-Nine was entrusted to his children, who are irresponsible and use the power of Ice-Nine only for their personal advantage. In the book mankind continually refuses to acknowledge what may be called its terminal stupidity and therefore perpetually threatens its own existence.
The few positive forces in the novel is undermined: love is presented as worthy but impossible, even comical ideal. Bokononism, a religious philosophy expounded throughout the book focuses on man as sacred. The book is humorous but far from optimistic about man's fate.
Wordlist
atomic bomb- war
military-camo-combat
scientist
genius
isolated
cat's cradle-string
game-puzzle
steps
win-lose
hands
player-playing
ice
water
freeze
snow
end of the world-globe
suffering
mud
love-compassion
estranged
jealous
caring
desire
feet
unreachable
insatiable
island
boat-ship
ocean
Statement of Intent
For the book jacket poster I would like to incorporate alot of text or quotes from the book. Alot of the book is about the fake religious philosophy Bokononism. There are alot of clever idioms and sayings in the book taht are interesting and thought provoking. I like the idea of illustrating each little saying with a small picture (maybe photo montage style).
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