what does someone mean when they say something is a “Catch-22”. Please include any details from the novel that would make the explanation easier.

Question

what does someone mean when they say something is a “Catch-22”. Please include any details from the novel that would make the explanation easier.

In: Other

Answer 1

The novel coined the phrase.

The novel is about WWII pilots. They get sent on dangerous missions, and want to stop. In order to stop flying, they have to be deemed insane. However, saying they’re insane to get out of flying missions only proves that they’re sane, and therefore have to keep flying.

A Catch-22 is basically when you have to achieve Goal A by completing Goal B. However, in order to complete Goal B, you have to achieve Goal A.

So any time you lock your keys in your car, it’s a Catch-22. You need your keys to unlock your car, but you need your car unlocked to get your keys.