Bloomington's fifth annual Granfalloon Festival and the legacy of Kurt Vonnegut Jr.

Noon Edition

Bloomington kicked off its fifth annual Granfalloon Festival last month, more than sixty years since Kurt Vonnegut Jr.’s novel Cat's Cradle was released.

An Indiana native, Vonnegut defines a granfalloon as a proud and meaningless association of human beings; part of the made-up religion in his book.

The Granfalloon Festival in Bloomington celebrates art, music, and Vonnegut’s work. This year features a line-up of local and touring performers like Amy O, The Linda Lindas, Sleater-Kinney, and Young@Heart Chorus.

It also includes art exhibitions and discussions related to Vonnegut.

His writing is known for its satire, social commentary, and dark humor. Researcher Christina Jarvis says his work’s honest tone and sense of humor continue to resonate with people.

This week on Noon Edition, we’ll talk with guests about the Granfalloon Festival and the life and work of Kurt Vonnegut Jr.

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Guests

Bob Cilman, Young@Heart Chorus co-director

Anita Shumway, Young@Heart Chorus member

Christina Jarvis, Fredonia State University of New York, author of Lucky Mud & Other Foma