Parody of American Consumerism: George and Hazel embody the stereotypical middle-class American couple, obsessed with material possessions and societal norms. Vonnegut satirizes their preoccupation with consumer goods, highlighting the emptiness of their lives defined solely by their belongings.
Conformity and Individuality: George's transformation into a puppet-like figure, controlled by slogans and advertising messages, represents Vonnegut's criticism of societal pressure to conform. Hazel, on the other hand, undergoes a journey of self-discovery and embracement of her individuality, suggesting that non-conformity and independent thought are crucial for personal fulfillment.
Dehumanizing Effects of Technology: The novel presents technology as a tool of control and dehumanization. The constant repetition of slogans and advertising messages reduces individuals to mere consumers, lacking authentic thoughts and emotions. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of allowing technology to dictate human behavior and diminish individuality.
Critique of Media and Popular Culture: Vonnegut uses the character of Dwayne Hoover, a science-fiction writer who becomes a millionaire by writing brain-dead stories for the masses, to criticize the state of media and popular culture. Hoover's success represents the decline of intellectual discourse in favor of mindless entertainment, which Vonnegut sees as detrimental to society.
Existential Loneliness: The interactions between George and Hazel reveal their deep-seated loneliness and lack of genuine human connection. Despite living together, they fail to communicate on a meaningful level, highlighting the isolating effects of modern society and the struggles of individuals in finding authentic relationships.
Overall, the interaction between George and Hazel serves as a vehicle for Kurt Vonnegut's social criticism, satirizing American consumer culture, conformity, the impact of technology, the media's influence, and the search for meaningful human connection in a society that promotes alienation and superficiality.