In Chapter 5 of Slaughterhouse-Five, the narrative takes a significant turn as Billy Pilgrim is abducted by Tralfamadorians, extraterrestrial beings from the planet Tralfamadore. This event marks a pivotal moment in the story, as it introduces a unique perspective on time and existence that deeply influences Billy's understanding of his own life and the events he has experienced.

The chapter begins with Billy's sudden transition from the grim realities of World War II to the surreal experience of being captured by the aliens. The abduction occurs in a manner that emphasizes the chaotic and disjointed nature of Billy's life. He finds himself in a strange environment, where he is surrounded by the Tralfamadorians, who are described as small, green beings with a unique anatomy that allows them to see all moments of time simultaneously.

During his time on Tralfamadore, Billy learns about the Tralfamadorian philosophy, which radically contrasts with human perceptions of time. The Tralfamadorians view time as a series of moments that exist simultaneously, rather than a linear progression. They believe that all moments—past, present, and future—are fixed and unchangeable. This perspective is encapsulated in their famous saying, "So it goes," which reflects an acceptance of death and suffering as inevitable parts of existence. This philosophy offers Billy a sense of solace, as it allows him to detach from the trauma of his wartime experiences and the randomness of life on Earth.

The aliens also emphasize the importance of seeing life from multiple viewpoints, which allows Billy to revisit his own experiences without the burden of guilt or regret. He comes to understand that every moment of his life has its place and significance, no matter how painful or joyful. This revelation helps him cope with the horrors he witnessed during the war, particularly the destruction of Dresden.

As Billy navigates his time on Tralfamadore, he is placed in a zoo-like enclosure along with another human, Montana Wildhack, a former actress. Their relationship develops into a romantic one, further illustrating the Tralfamadorian belief in seizing joy in the present, regardless of the surrounding chaos.

The chapter concludes with a return to the realities of Billy's existence, but the insights he gains from the Tralfamadorians linger in his mind. This experience of abduction not only expands Billy's understanding of time and existence but also serves as a metaphor for the disorientation and fragmentation of his post-war life. The teachings of the Tralfamadorians provide a framework through which Billy attempts to make sense of his trauma and the senselessness of war, reinforcing the novel's overarching themes of free will, fatalism, and the absurdity of human existence.