Catch-22 By Joseph Heller

This article was written twenty-five years after the publication of Catch-22. It provides a background on the novel. It captures various perspectives of critics and scholars, both from the time of its release and the time of its twenty-fifth anniversary (as well as in between). In addition, the journalist’s interpretation of the novel and the intent of its author, Joseph Heller, are part of the article. It progresses with a contrast made between Catch-22 and an essay by Philip Roth entitled “Writing American Fiction,” which had been published the same year. Roth wrote that many difficulties existed for a writer in post-World War Two America. According to the article, because of the demands and expectations projected onto authors, Catch-22 easily

According to the article, Catch-22 is more than just a chronicle of a man’s experience during the war. It also serves to make a point about the flawed nature of established authority. Catch-22 is an act of rebellion against a society governed by rules. Its portrayal of individuals as victims to the manipulation of those in power is a cry out against oppressive leaders. The novel declares that many authority figures -- not only in the military -- are selfish and have no reservations about manipulating those under them. By shedding light on the novel and the purposes Heller had in writing it, the article disagrees with my thesis statement. The writer of the article asserts that the novel serves to criticize social and government institutions and educate individuals about the flawed, twisted bureaucracies prevalent in the world. Even though its purpose is dangerous to those in power, it should be read. It addresses an issue in the world, specifically in the United States, and it should not be

Furthermore, it is supplemented by a myriad of other sources, which are carefully cited. In fact, this book includes an annotated bibliography that describes and assesses its sources. It is very helpful to readers who are seeking more information about scholarly reviews, analyses, and research on Catch-22 and the life of Joseph Heller. Another aspect of this book that builds its reliability is its inclusion of critical essays from individuals possessing various perspectives on Catch-22. This deters any notions that the book is biased. Readers of this book, along with all the essays it contains, will have a comprehensive understanding of Catch-22 and the life of Heller. Then they can form their own opinions about the