Previous
Allegory
Definition of Allusion
In literature, an allusion is an unexplained reference to someone or something outside of the text. Writers commonly allude to other literary works, famous individuals, historical events, or philosophical ideas... read full definition
In literature, an allusion is an unexplained reference to someone or something outside of the text. Writers commonly allude to other literary works, famous individuals... read full definition
In literature, an allusion is an unexplained reference to someone or something outside of the text. Writers commonly allude to... read full definition
Preface
Explanation and Analysis—Breakfast of Champions:
Vonnegut opens his preface with this declaration:
"The expression "Breakfast of Champions" is a registered trademark of General Mills, Inc., for use on a breakfast cereal product. The use of the identical expression as the title for this book is not intended to indicate an association with or sponsorship by General Mills, nor is it intended to disparage their fine products."
Related Themes:
Chapter 13
Explanation and Analysis—Moby Dick:
In the middle of Chapter 13, Dwayne Hoover consults with his stepbrothers Lyle and Kyle about an issue in a tourist trap the three of them own called Sacred Miracle Cave:
Unlock with LitCharts A+"Them bubbles is halfway up to the Cathedral now," said Lyle. "The way they're coming, they'll be up to Moby Dick in a week or two." [...] These bubbles were shouldering one another up a passage which led to a big boulder which had been painted white to resemble Moby Dick, the Great White Whale. The bubbles would soon engulf Moby Dick...
Related Themes:
Chapter 18
Explanation and Analysis—Breakfast of Champions:
Vonnegut opens his preface with this declaration:
Unlock with LitCharts A+"The expression "Breakfast of Champions" is a registered trademark of General Mills, Inc., for use on a breakfast cereal product. The use of the identical expression as the title for this book is not intended to indicate an association with or sponsorship by General Mills, nor is it intended to disparage their fine products."
Related Themes:
Chapter 20
Explanation and Analysis—Cellophane:
Near the end of the book, Vonnegut alludes to Dostoevsky's The Brother's Karamazov for the sake of delivering a comic simile:
Unlock with LitCharts A+"It's all like an ocean!" cried Dostoevski. I say it's all like cellophane.
Related Themes:
