In Kurt Vonnegut Jr.'s "Wampeters, Foma and Granfalloons," he reflects on the nature of national greatness, suggesting that every nation holds a sense of importance or holiness in times of crisis or death. This notion implies that countries may be viewed differently as they face dire situations, creating a temporary sense of unity and strength.

He also touches on the Biafrans, who discovered their fighting spirit during their conflict, a stark contrast to their previous experiences. Vonnegut poetically remarks that this once-fierce spirit will not be rekindled, signifying a profound transformation and a longing for peace, along with the fading echoes of their past struggles.