Question

Why might Kurt Vonnegut have chosen to structure his short story “Report on the Barnhouse Effect” as an article? How does this choice influence the development and point of view of the story? Cite textual evidence to support your response.

Answer 1

Exact answer:

Kurt Vonnegut's “Report on the Barnhouse Effect” is written in the form of an article. Because articles typically present factual information, this format legitimizes the ideas and events presented in the story. The blending of the narrative form within an article is an example of how postmodernist writers often mixed different formats. The article format also allows the narrator to cover events that span different time periods and locations with ease. Vonnegut uses irony and sarcasm while presenting a serious style and tone. The narrator occasionally reports blithe and funny information, such as "Gentlemen. . .as the first superweapon with a conscience, I am removing myself from your national defense stockpile."

Answer 2

Kurt Vonnegut's “Report on the Barn house Effect” is printed in the form of an article. Because articles classically present truthful information, this arrangement legitimizes the thoughts and events existing in the story. The coming together of the narrative form within an article is an instance of how postmodernist authors often varied altered formats. The article format also permits the narrator to shelter events that extent different time periods and positions with comfort. Vonnegut uses irony and sarcasm while giving a solemn style and tone. The narrator infrequently reports carefree and funny information, such as "Gentlemen. . .as the first superweapon with conscience, I am eliminating myself from your nationwide defense stockpile.