In Joseph Heller's novel "Catch-22," the phrase "Just because you're paranoid doesn't mean they aren't after you" captures the essence of the character's struggles against overwhelming bureaucracies and the absurdities of war. This line suggests that one's feelings of paranoia can often be justified in a world that seems to conspire against them. It highlights the tension between personal perceptions of reality and the often indifferent or hostile systems that individuals must navigate.

The quote emphasizes that suspicion or fear is not always irrational; instead, it can stem from real threats or dangers that exist in the environment. Heller’s work delves into the experiences of individuals caught in the machinery of war, revealing how their mental states reflect the chaos and absurdities they face. The line serves as both a critique of authority and a reflection on the psychological toll of warfare, affirming that awareness of dangers is a rational response to the unpredictability of life in a war zone.