Some men are born mediocre, some men achieve mediocrity, and some men have mediocrity thrust upon them. With Major Major it had been all three. Even among men lacking all distinction he inevitably stood out as a man lacking more distinction than all the rest, and people who met him were always impressed by how unimpressive he was.
In Joseph Heller's "Catch-22," the character Major Major embodies a unique form of mediocrity. He fits into three categories: some individuals are inherently mediocre, some work to achieve mediocrity, and others find it imposed upon them. Major Major exemplifies all three of these experiences, illustrating the complexities of personal identity and societal perception.
Despite being surrounded by others who are equally unremarkable, Major Major is notable in his lack of distinction. His unimpressive nature leaves a lasting impression on those who encounter him, further emphasizing the absurdity of his existence and the nature of mediocrity within a military context.
