In Joseph Heller's "Something Happened," the imagery of deteriorating motels, abandoned cars, and fast-food establishments paints a stark picture of the changing American landscape. This depiction suggests a sense of decay and neglect, highlighting how these elements proliferate like a natural phenomenon. The comparison to "amber waves of grain" emphasizes the contrast between the beauty of idealized America and the reality of its decline. Heller's commentary reflects on the loss of quality and authenticity in society, where once vibrant and meaningful structures have given way to a landscape filled with commercial and physical decay. This not only reveals the author's critical view of contemporary culture but also invites readers to ponder the implications of such changes on American identity and values.

In Joseph Heller's "Something Happened," the imagery of deteriorating motels, abandoned cars, and fast-food establishments paints a stark picture of the changing American landscape. This depiction suggests a sense of decay and neglect, highlighting how these elements proliferate like a natural phenomenon. The comparison to "amber waves of grain" emphasizes the contrast between the beauty of idealized America and the reality of its decline.

Heller's commentary reflects on the loss of quality and authenticity in society, where once vibrant and meaningful structures have given way to a landscape filled with commercial and physical decay. This not only reveals the author's critical view of contemporary culture but also invites readers to ponder the implications of such changes on American identity and values.