Kurt Vonnegut's stance on Star Trek was a fascinating blend of cynicism and acceptance, even though he wasn't a fan. As an author known for his sardonic, bitter worldview, Vonnegut saw the world as darkly absurd, yet he found solace in the idea that Star Trek could offer a means of retreat for people. This is particularly intriguing given his own ambivalence towards human existence and his deep sympathy for the gentle, intellectual outsiders.
In the 1999 book 'Future Perfect: How Star Trek Conquered Planet Earth,' author Jeff Greenwald interviewed Vonnegut about Gene Roddenberry's iconic show. Vonnegut admitted that he didn't read sci-fi books or watch 'Star Trek' in any of its iterations, but he was pleased to support anything that brings us a means of retreat. He noted that humans continue to wage wars and pollute the environment because, in his words, 'people hate life. They find it embarrassing, terribly uncomfortable, and they wouldn't care if it ended tomorrow.'
What makes Vonnegut's stance on Star Trek particularly fascinating is his understanding that all humans are longing for a sense of family. He saw Star Trek as fulfilling that longing, even if it was a fictional utopian future. This is a powerful observation, as it suggests that the show's optimistic view of the future can provide a sense of comfort and hope for people who are struggling with the harsh realities of the present.
However, Vonnegut's stance on Star Trek is also a reflection of his own cynical worldview. He saw the show as just another form of entertainment, like the O.J. Simpson case or anything else. But he also recognized that people need something to hold onto, and Star Trek provided that for many people. This is a bittersweet observation, as it suggests that while Star Trek may not be a perfect reflection of reality, it can still provide a sense of comfort and escape for people who need it.
In the end, Vonnegut's stance on Star Trek is a complex and nuanced one. It reflects his own ambivalence towards human existence and his understanding of the human need for family and connection. While he may not have been a fan of the show, he recognized its power to provide a sense of comfort and escape for people who need it. This is a powerful observation that highlights the enduring appeal of Star Trek and its ability to provide a means of retreat for people in turbulent times.
