Among the things Billy Pilgrim could not change were the past, the present, and the future.

We used to have superb public schools. I guess we don't anymore, but, boy, the public schools were really something and I am a product of those in Indianapolis.

Sometimes I think it is a great mistake to have matter that can think and feel. It complains so.

The economy is a thoughtless weather system.

I am of course a skeptic about the divinity of Christ and a scorner of the notion that there is a God who cares about how we are or what we do. ... Religious skeptics often become very bitter towards the end, as did Mark Twain. ... I know why I will become bitter. I will finally realize that I have had it right all along: that I will not see God, that there is no heaven or Judgement Day.

What the Gospels actually said was: don't kill anyone until you are absolutely sure they aren't well connected.

That's what is was to be young - to be enthusiastic rather than envious about the good work other people could do.