In Joseph Heller's novel "Catch-22," the phrase "disappear somebody" encapsulates the absurdity and confusion surrounding the bureaucratic and often nonsensical nature of war and military life. The protagonist and others question the meaning and implications of such language, highlighting the lack of clarity and the often illogical aspects of the situations they face. This sense of bewilderment reflects the overarching theme of the novel, where characters grapple with a reality that defies conventional understanding.
This quote underscores a critical examination of language and its power within the context of war. It poses a challenge to the reader to consider how words can obscure reality and create a sense of helplessness and frustration. The existential dilemmas faced by the characters are emblematic of the larger critique Heller makes about the dehumanizing effects of war and the arbitrariness of authority, illustrating the struggle to find meaning in an increasingly perplexing world.