In Joseph Heller's novel "Catch-22," the description of man as mere matter emphasizes the physical and existential realities of human existence. This perspective suggests that humans are bound by the laws of physics, highlighting their vulnerability and mortality. The imagery of being dropped from a window or set on fire illustrates the harsh and transient nature of life, stripping away romantic notions of humanity to reveal a more sobering truth.

The quote implies a sense of futility and highlights the inevitability of decay and death. By comparing humans to garbage that rots, Heller critiques societal values and the way individuals can be dehumanized. It serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the urgent need for meaning beyond mere physical existence amidst the absurdities of war and the human condition in general.