In Joseph Heller's "Catch-22," the character Havermeyer expresses a humorous but pointed preference through a vivid metaphor. He suggests that he'd rather deal with the minor inconvenience of peanut brittle crumbs on his face than the much more bothersome possibility of flies buzzing around his eyes. This statement not only illustrates his disdain for flies but also highlights his willingness to tolerate small annoyances over larger problems.

This exchange reflects Heller’s broader themes of absurdity and the irrational nature of war, showcasing how characters often prefer minor discomforts over overwhelming chaos. It underscores the lengths to which individuals go to maintain a semblance of control in chaotic situations, thereby emphasizing both the absurdity of their circumstance and the human tendency to find humor in adversity.