The Big Trip Up Yonder

Vonnegut wrote several short stories on the topic of overpopulation. As we wrestle in the present day with a global population ballooning above 8 billion people, Vonnegut's portrait of a world dealing with shortages ranging from food, gas, and building materials feels more prophetic than bizarre.

In this short story, Vonnegut explores the sinister side of a family trying to stay in the good graces of their patriarch as he makes preparations for "the big trip up yonder."