Catch-22

Catch-22 is a satirical masterpiece that critiques the insanity of war and the bureaucratic madness that surrounds it. The novel follows Captain John Yossarian, a bombardier stationed in Italy during World War II, who is desperate to escape the horrors of war. Yossarian's attempts to be declared insane and thus escape combat are thwarted by the infamous Catch-22: a bureaucratic rule that states a man is considered insane if he willingly continues to fly dangerous combat missions, but if he asks to be grounded, he is rational and therefore fit to fly. This paradox forms the backbone of the novel's dark humor and biting social commentary. /n/n The novel is renowned for its nonlinear narrative structure and its portrayal of the absurdity of war. It delves into themes of survival, the dehumanizing effects of war, and the futility of bureaucratic systems. Joseph Heller's use of satire and dark humor makes Catch-22 a timeless critique of the military-industrial complex and the human condition.