In Joseph Heller's "Catch-22," the character of Death is portrayed as an inescapable force, symbolizing the reality of mortality that everyone confronts. Despite this inherent inevitability, there is an expectation for decorum and propriety even in the face of such grim circumstances. This highlights the absurdity of societal norms that demand civility when dealing with serious matters like death. The quote underscores the tension between the harshness of existence and the superficial conventions that govern behavior. It suggests that while Death may influence our lives, we are still bound by social expectations to maintain a facade of civility. This reflects Heller's broader themes of absurdity and the struggles individuals face in reconciling their experiences with societal demands.

In Joseph Heller's "Catch-22," the character of Death is portrayed as an inescapable force, symbolizing the reality of mortality that everyone confronts. Despite this inherent inevitability, there is an expectation for decorum and propriety even in the face of such grim circumstances. This highlights the absurdity of societal norms that demand civility when dealing with serious matters like death.

The quote underscores the tension between the harshness of existence and the superficial conventions that govern behavior. It suggests that while Death may influence our lives, we are still bound by social expectations to maintain a facade of civility. This reflects Heller's broader themes of absurdity and the struggles individuals face in reconciling their experiences with societal demands.