Gold was not altogether certain what, anatomically, a gorge was, but he knew that his was rising

Gold was not altogether certain what, anatomically, a gorge was, but he knew that his was rising

In Joseph Heller's novel "Catch-22," the character Gold experiences a moment of confusion and discomfort when he realizes that his gorge is rising. This phrase, "Gold was not altogether certain what, anatomically, a gorge was, but he knew that his was rising," captures the absurdity and confusion that permeates the novel.

Gold's confusion about the term "gorge" reflects the larger theme of the novel, which is the absurdity and illogicality of war. In the midst of chaos and violence, the characters in "Catch-22" often find themselves in situations where they are unsure of what is happening or why. Gold's uncertainty about the meaning of "gorge" is a metaphor for the larger confusion and disorientation that the characters experience in the novel.

The fact that Gold's gorge is rising suggests that he is feeling a sense of unease or discomfort. This feeling is likely a result of the absurdity and senselessness of war, which is a central theme in "Catch-22." The rising gorge could also symbolize Gold's revulsion at the violence and destruction that he witnesses during his time in the military.

Heller's use of humor and irony in this passage adds to the overall tone of the novel. The juxtaposition of Gold's confusion about the term "gorge" with the seriousness of the situation he is in highlights the absurdity of war and the human capacity for misunderstanding and miscommunication.

Overall, the phrase "Gold was not altogether certain what, anatomically, a gorge was, but he knew that his was rising" encapsulates the themes of confusion, absurdity, and discomfort that run throughout Joseph Heller's "Catch-22." It is a reminder of the futility and senselessness of war, and the ways in which it can leave individuals feeling lost and disoriented.