In Joseph Heller's "Catch-22," the characters Yossarian and Dunbar are acutely aware of the absurdity surrounding them, particularly the ongoing war that seems to be ignored by everyone else. Their realization highlights a sense of isolation, as they struggle to comprehend the madness of a world preoccupied with routine and denial while chaos reigns. Yossarian's attempts to confront others about the war fall on deaf ears, further emphasizing the disconnect between sanity and societal norms.

This dynamic showcases the central theme of the novel, where individuals are caught in a paradoxical situation that challenges their perceptions of reality. Yossarian is seen as irrational for questioning the war, illustrating how society often stigmatizes those who dare to confront uncomfortable truths. Heller's portrayal of this tension invites readers to reflect on their own engagement with societal issues and the consequences of turning a blind eye to the troubling realities of life.