In "Catch-22," Joseph Heller explores the absurdities of war and bureaucracy through the experiences of Captain John Yossarian. The narrative delves into the struggles of the soldiers who face the paradox of trying to maintain sanity in an insane situation. Heller’s dark humor highlights the contradictions within military regulations and the futility of the characters' efforts to escape their grim realities.

One striking moment in the book is when a character expresses a disdain for modifiers, declaring that every adverb and adjective be eliminated. This reflects a broader theme of simplicity in a chaotic world, where the clarity of expression contrasts sharply with the convoluted nature of their circumstances. Heller captures the essence of the struggle against unnecessary complexity in both language and life.