Novelist and playwright Kurt Vonnegut served as the voice of several generations, enjoying a career that lasted more than 40 years. Hailed by critics as a literary idol at the time of his death at the age of 84, Vonnegut produced some of the most enduring works of fiction, including "Slaughterhouse-Five," which made him a hero of the anti-war movement in the 1960s. This caused a renaissance in his career as fans sought out his previous works, including "Cat's Cradle." His work often blended satire, science fiction and black comedy. Vonnegut is considered one of the most important write…