In "Catch-22," Yossarian recognizes the paradoxical nature of the titular concept, understanding it as an unavoidable dilemma that features a blend of logic and absurdity. As he converses with Doc Daneeka, Yossarian contemplates the eerie elegance of Catch-22, likening it to modern art—beautiful yet perplexing. This correspondence emphasizes the complexity and futility inherent in military bureaucracy and the struggles faced by individuals caught in such a system.

The metaphor of modern art illustrates Yossarian's struggle to fully grasp the implications of Catch-22. He perceives both its intricacies and its absurdity, acknowledging how it captures the irrationality of war and authority. Through this exploration, Heller critiques the convoluted nature of societal rules that trap individuals, leaving them grappling with their precarious circumstances while questioning the sensibility of their experiences.