Think of the small group of people you have ended up
running into and spending time with over the course of your life. Some
may be friends, others not. A big part of Vonnegut'
s Karass concept revolves around coincidence evolving beyond apophenia, into the realm of the mystical.
The author suggests a
divine plan behind the interactions of those within a karass, but adds it is unlikely that it's purpose
will ever be revealed. I suspect it is, like the universe itself, recursive in function.
In summary, to begin to understand one's karass and those who are entwined within it, simply look for a common denominator between all those you have spent substantial time with, by
choice or otherwise. The collective experiences garnered through these contacts both become and determine one's karass.
I have a friend who I went through 6 years of elementary
school with and then
Jr. High. We were friends, but from different neighborhoods so not especially close. I quit high
school, and after we only maintained sporadic contact. Several years later we both ended up as belated Freshman at the same university in Florida.
Through mutual friends we kept in touch for 5 or so years after college, then were disconnected again when I moved to
California. A few months ago we found each other once again in the metaverse, and I just sent him an email today explaining karass, and how I always saw
us as part of one. Disappointed after looking into what was available via Google, I ended up here posting this definition. Karass?