Clevinger had a mind, and Lieutenant Scheisskoph had noticed that people with minds tended to get pretty smart at times.
The quote from Joseph Heller's "Catch-22" highlights the contrasting perceptions of intellect and its utility in a military context. Clevinger represents a character with a strong sense of reasoning, which sets him apart in an environment that often values conformity over critical thinking. His intelligence makes him more aware of the absurdities of war, leading to conflicts with those who reject such awareness.
Lieutenant Scheisskoph's observation reflects a broader commentary on the dynamics within military ranks, where individuals with independent thoughts may find themselves at odds with authority, highlighting the often irrational nature of bureaucratic structures. This tension illustrates Heller's critique of the military mindset and the consequences of intelligence in a system that often punishes it.
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All the things you can talk about in anyone's work are the things that are least important.
Race of Cain, ascend to heaven, And cast God down upon the earth!
