In Margaret Atwood's "MaddAddam," the protagonist reflects on the nature of war, likening it to a practical joke. She draws a parallel between the playful element of surprise often found in jokes and the suddenness of violence in warfare. The comparison suggests that both involve elements of surprise, yet the stakes in war are far graver, marked by the tragic consequences of bloodshed. This contemplation highlights the absurdity and grim reality of conflict, where the excitement of the initial shock contrasts sharply with the devastating outcomes. Through this analogy, Atwood critiques the way war can be perceived, questioning the seriousness with which society regards the horrors of violence versus the triviality associated with humor.