In Joseph Heller's "Catch-22," the narrative explores the complexities of guilt and victimhood, suggesting that both concepts intertwine in a way that complicates moral judgments. The quote highlights a cyclical pattern where victims may also share in the blame, creating a murky distinction between innocence and culpability. This idea challenges readers to reconsider preconceived notions of guilt and raises questions about personal accountability in tragic circumstances.

Moreover, the call to action in the quote emphasizes the need for change—to break free from harmful inherited behaviors that endanger individuals. Heller points to the urgency of confronting these cycles, urging a conscious effort to challenge societal norms. The notion that "someone had to do something once" inspires a sense of responsibility for breaking the status quo, ultimately aiming for a more just and hopeful future.