In this excerpt from "Catch-22," Yossarian expresses his paranoid conviction that everyone is out to get him, particularly when he discusses his concerns with Clevinger. Yossarian's statement that every person poses a threat highlights the overwhelming sense of danger he feels in a chaotic world marked by war. Clevinger, trying to rationalize the situation, can't grasp Yossarian's perspective, leading to a clash of beliefs and frustrations.
The absurdity of war is exemplified in Yossarian's experience, as he faces real threats from unseen enemies every time he takes to the skies. His fear is not unfounded; it is a response to the traumatic reality of being shot at during combat missions. While Clevinger seeks logical explanations, Yossarian's lived experience serves as proof that the dangers he faces are tangible, making the gravity of his paranoia far from trivial.