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Bokononism Quote by Kurt Vonnegut

“And God created every living creature that now moveth, and one was man. Mud as man alone could speak. God leaned close as mud as man sat up, looked around, and spoke. Man blinked. “What is the purpose of all this?” he asked politely. “Everything must have a purpose?” asked God. “Certainly,” said…” quote by Kurt Vonnegut
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““And God created every living creature that now moveth, and one was man. Mud as man alone could speak. God leaned close as mud as man sat up, looked around, and spoke. Man blinked. “What is the purpose of all this?” he asked politely. “Everything must have a purpose?” asked God. “Certainly,” said man. “Then I leave it to you to think of one for all this,” said God. And He went away.””

Kurt Vonnegut

About This Quote

Source Short Story: “The Purpose” (fictional), 1970

God and man discuss purpose, suggesting purpose is a human construct to be defined.

In simple terms: Purpose is something we create.

Key Takeaway

Define your own purpose.

Themes

existence meaning dialogue

Mood

contemplative curious

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • Writing a personal mission statement
  • discussing purpose in therapy
  • teaching philosophy

Key Concepts

Philosophical inquiry human agency creation of meaning

Questions to Reflect On

  • What purpose do you assign to your actions?
  • How does defining purpose affect your choices?
A Different Perspective

The dialogue may oversimplify complex theological debates.

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