In Joseph Heller's "Catch-22," the protagonist grapples with the constant threat of death during military missions. This notion highlights the precariousness of life in wartime, where danger lurks close and survival is uncertain. The phrase captures the emotional and psychological toll that such experiences exact on soldiers, emphasizing their vulnerability and the impacts of war on their well-being.

Additionally, the quote reflects the harsh realities of aging in a high-stakes environment. As characters confront the absurdity of their situations, they often wonder about their futures and how imminent risks might affect their lives. Heller's work captures a poignant blend of humor and gravity, illustrating the struggle against the relentless march of time and the inevitable mortality that defines the human experience.