Catch-22 Syntax

! Overall, the syntax of Catch-22 is pretty simple. The sentences are pretty much
on the medium to long range side; itʼs rare to find a short, choppy sentence. They use
the appropriate words in the right ways to get across the feeling that Heller wants to.
None of the sentences are hard to understand, they get to the point, whether its a
humorous or serious point. However, the syntax does change as you get more specific.
When the book is being humorous, which is quite often, the structure of the sentences is
a little more free, using up as much space as it wants with repeating similar thoughts in
different ways. This pattern does not hold true when the book is being serious, there is
no repetition, no irony, nothing could be interpreted as humorous, every sentences says
something different, as opposed to wording a previously mentioned topic a different
way.
! Heller uses syntax well, but not in a way you notice while reading it. Itʼs so well
written that you canʼt notice it, the words do their job. Heller makes the words flow, and
it makes the thoughts flow, and when the strange logic is the topic of the book, the flow
of the book takes you right through the whole scene leaving you confused too. When
the topic is more serious, the syntax takes you through at a slower pace with longer
sentences, making you feel every moment.
! The syntax does itʼs job early in the novel, and those quick one or two-liners start
off in the first chapter. Heller writes, “The Texan turned out to be good-natured,
generous, and likable. In three days no one could stand him.” (Page 9) Quick and
witty, sentences like these are found throughout the novel and create that light tone. It
makes the book feel more real, gives it more personality. Because of the frequency of
remarks like these, however, the reader starts to take them for granted. Heller still uses
syntax strongly though, and this book would not be nearly as strong without it.