In the novel "Catch-22" by Joseph Heller, a character named Yossarian humorously responds to a question about his birthplace. Instead of providing a traditional answer related to geography, he quips that he was born on a battlefield, suggesting a tumultuous and chaotic beginning. This clever remark emphasizes the absurdity of war and the experiences that shape individuals.

When pressed further for a specific state, Yossarian replies that he was born in a "state of innocence." This response reflects a deeper philosophical insight, highlighting the loss of innocence that accompanies the harsh realities of life and conflict. Heller uses this exchange to encapsulate the themes of absurdity and the stark contrasts between innocence and the complexities of human experience.