“‘I thought 22 was a funnier number than 14.” – Robert Gottlieb, Simon & Schuster

Posted on November 19, 2007 by sheila

Wonderful article about the well-known story of the naming of the book Catch-22. My favorite is that quote from editor Robert Gottlieb in the title line. He’s right, you know.

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6 Responses to “‘I thought 22 was a funnier number than 14.” – Robert Gottlieb, Simon & Schuster

  1. Brendan says:
    November 19, 2007 at 2:27 pm

    Three syllables is funny. Two isn’t. Repeating consonant sounds are funny, long e sounds aren’t. Over generalized analysis of humor is unwise, laughing at this book is wise.

  2. red says:
    November 19, 2007 at 3:09 pm

    I still think it’s a funny comment. And kinda brilliant – because I think he’s right.

  3. DBW says:
    November 19, 2007 at 4:20 pm

    I always hear it in my mind as “Catch-a twenny-two, Catch-a twenny two.”

  4. erik says:
    November 20, 2007 at 2:58 am

    What I love about that essay is the lesson about letting go. It’s so easy to fall in love with something when you’re writing (like how Heller was so used to the title Catch 18 and thought that could be the only title), but it’s usually those little things that we love so much that NEED to be changed, that have a better way of being said just waiting in the wings.

  5. red says:
    November 20, 2007 at 8:15 am

    Erik – I love your comment. Great point!!! Heller was heartbroken at the change … and that’s okay, it’s his right to be heartbroken … but life goes on, and Catch-22 survives and we all know it and love it. It IS a good lesson about letting go!!

  6. red says:
    November 20, 2007 at 9:10 am

    Erik – by the way, I finished End of the Affair!! I know you’ve been busy with the strike and everything – but I had to tell you I finally read it! Posted about it here. Wow!

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